Melissa L. Jarrell

Jarrell examines print news media coverage of federal penalties assessed against the petroleum refining industry. While there are many federal petroleum refining industry violations, only a limited number receive media attention. This lack of media coverage suggests that this crime is considered less important despite the harm to the environment and human health produced by petroleum refining industry violations. Lack of attention by the news media may lead to public misunderstanding and ignorance of the causes and consequences of environmental crime. Jarrell suggests that criminologists become more involved in public discourse via the mainstream mass media. In addition, criminologists should endeavor to assist local communities in activist efforts.