Partner Ernest Aduwa comments on online sleuths and police investigations in The i Paper

Partner Ernest Aduwa comments on the recent disappearance of British teenager Jay Slater, and how online sleuths and conspiracy theories can hamper police investigations, in The i Paper.

Ernest’s comments were published in The i Paper, 2 July 2024, and can be found here.

“The disappearance of Jay Slater has been a deeply distressing event for many, drawing significant public attention and emotional involvement from people around the world. While the outpouring of concern and the desire to help are commendable, the proliferation of online conspiracy theories and uncoordinated amateur investigations can pose substantial challenges to official police efforts.

“The police are duty bound to follow all leads, so conspiracy theories, often based on misinformation and/or speculation, can divert attention and resources away from legitimate leads. These theories can quickly spread across social media, leading to a flood of tips and false information that investigators must sift through, slowing down the investigation process.

“Moreover, amateur investigations, though often well-intentioned, can interfere with the delicate and methodical approach that professional investigators must take. When individuals outside of the police conduct their own searches or interrogations, they risk contaminating potential crime scenes, inadvertently harming the case.

“It’s crucial to recognise the expertise and protocols that the police bring to such investigations, as a result of the training, resources, and legal authority. To support effective investigations, it is essential for the public to exercise caution and critical thinking when encountering information online. Verifying sources and understanding the potential harm of spreading unverified claims can help ensure that efforts to find missing individuals like Jay Slater are productive and do not hinder the work of professionals.

“The rise of online conspiracy theories and amateur investigations has become increasingly prevalent in recent years, as seen in high-profile cases such as Nicola Bulley’s disappearance. The widespread speculation and misinformation circulating on social media can significantly hinder police investigations and cause additional distress to the families involved.

“In the case of Nicola Bulley, unfounded theories and the actions of amateur sleuths not only complicated the police investigation but also led to the dissemination of hurtful and unverified information. The justice system can take several steps to mitigate these issues in future cases.

“Firstly, timely and transparent communication from the police can help manage public perception and reduce the spread of misinformation. Providing regular updates and addressing rumours directly can help build trust and prevent speculation from filling the void.

“Secondly, social media platforms should be encouraged to monitor and regulate the spread of unverified claims more effectively. Implementing stricter policies against the dissemination of false information related to ongoing investigations can help limit the reach of harmful content.

“Lastly, public education on the importance of relying on verified sources and understanding the impact of spreading unconfirmed information is crucial. Encouraging the public to report tips directly to the police rather than conducting their own investigations can help ensure that official efforts are not undermined.”