Editorial: Law Enforcement Road Block Disclosure

 I have learned since beginning an online news service that it is impossible to please everyone on any given issue and to attempt to do so would be futile, disingenuous and irresponsible.  Some topics are obviously more controversial than others, provoke strong emotion and don’t always lend themselves to a right or wrong answer.

I recently received an email from a concerned citizen about a post through our Twitter and Facebook page that provided information about a law enforcement roadblock on Hwy 14E prior to the Louisville- Noxubee High School football game on November 23.

 As part of our service to our area, we monitor other news sources and responsible individuals for immediate information. From various sources, we were able to determine that a roadblock was in place just prior to the game as Louisville folk traveled to Noxubee County and many people expressed frustration at the delay and the potential hazard that was caused.  We simply relayed that information to our followers so that they would be aware of the situation and we also urged them to use caution and be responsible. Here is a word for word copy of the post:

“Reports of a roadblock on hwy 14 as Louisville fans head into Noxubee Co for tonight's game. Folks be careful and responsible out there....”

The email requested that we avoid posting information about such roadblocks, as drivers who have been drinking can use the information to avoid the area and possibly cause an accident if they travel an alternate route; all of which is quite possible and a legitimate concern.  Our intention would never be to aid someone who is breaking the law or endangering others.

There is however another aspect of this issue that must be considered. While we do not have a specific policy on these matters, we have discussed the disclosure of roadblocks with law enforcement and at least some have a different take on the issue. In the past, WWN has even been asked to publicize a date and general location of such checkpoints.

There is a preventative aspect to making the public aware of roadblocks:  Individuals who have taken a drink or two, may think twice about getting behind the wheel of a vehicle if they know they are likely to be stopped. Drivers may check to make sure they have their license before leaving home, allow themselves more time to reach their destination, buckle their seatbelts and reduce their speed if they know that law enforcement is in the area.

Those who are foolish enough to drive drunk are probably never going to be stopped until they hurt or kill someone or are arrested and lose their license.  Yet, others may utilize the beforehand knowledge of a roadblock to make wiser decisions that prevent an arrest or an accident.  In reality, no one knows which purpose of a roadblock or check point outweighs the other.

For the record, we do not disclose exact locations and time frames of roadblocks, we do not disclose information on upcoming roadblocks unless asked to do so by law enforcement and we do not publicize roadblock and check point information unless we believe that the law-abiding public may benefit from that knowledge. We welcome your comments and thoughts on the matter.

WWN Editor