Triangle Local is a local newsroom. These are the ethics we use when we report, write and correct a story. They sit alongside our editorial standards. Triangle Local is not an official or emergency source. In an emergency, call 911.
Accuracy
- We publish what we can confirm. We do not invent facts, numbers or quotes.
- Every story separates what is confirmed, what is alleged or reported (with who is saying it), and what is still unknown.
- If we cannot confirm a detail, we say so. We do not fill the gap with another outlet's wording or with guesswork.
- Headlines match the story. We do not overstate a charge, a crash or a weather warning.
Sourcing
- Each story rests on a primary source: an agency news release, an official account, a public or court record, or something we saw or filmed ourselves.
- We get a second, independent confirmation before naming a suspect, reporting deaths or injuries, reporting a threat to a school, or relying on anything other than an official source.
- Scanner traffic, social media comments and tips are leads. We never publish them as facts.
- We link to our sources so you can check them. We do not copy another newsroom's text or photos.
Corrections
When we get something wrong, we fix the story and add a note saying what changed, when and why. We never change a fact silently. Corrections are listed on our corrections page. A clarification means we improved the wording without changing the facts.
To report an error, use our contact page.
Independence
No one pays for coverage. A gift through Support Triangle Local is voluntary and does not buy a story, a headline or a take-down. If we take sponsors or advertising in the future, they will be clearly labeled and will have no say in what we report.
We do not write stories in exchange for access, tickets or other favors. We do not present this site as a government or emergency service.