At BethelAdvocate.com, accuracy is the foundation of our journalism. We are committed to publishing information that is factually correct, responsibly sourced, and clearly presented. This Fact-Checking Policy outlines how we verify content before it is published and how we correct errors when they occur.
Commitment to Accuracy
Our editorial team takes every possible step to ensure that information in our news articles is accurate and reliable. We verify facts before publication using credible sources and cross-reference details when needed. Accuracy is prioritized over speed, especially in fast-developing or sensitive stories.
Sources We Use
We rely on information from:
- Official public records and government agencies
- Verified law enforcement statements and press releases
- Court documents and legal filings
- Accredited weather services and public safety alerts
- Reputable local, national, and international news organizations
- On-the-record interviews with individuals directly involved in a story
We avoid using anonymous sources unless the information is essential to public interest and the source’s identity must be protected for safety or legal reasons. In such cases, the editorial team must be fully satisfied with the credibility of the source.
Editorial Review Process
Before publication, every article undergoes an editorial review that includes:
- Fact verification by the reporter
- Review by at least one editor
- Sourcing confirmation for direct claims or quotes
- Clarity and neutrality check to ensure unbiased presentation
Breaking news may be updated in real time as new facts emerge. We mark updates clearly and timestamp them for transparency.
Corrections Policy
If an error is found in a published article, we correct it as soon as possible. Minor corrections (such as spelling or date clarification) are fixed silently, while substantive changes (such as incorrect facts or names) are noted with an editorial correction at the end of the article.
To report a factual error, readers can contact us at:
Email: betheladvocate@gmail.com
Reader Contributions and Tips
We welcome community tips, but every submission is subject to independent verification before publication. Tips alone are not considered sufficient evidence for publishing unless supported by credible documentation or confirmation from a trustworthy source.
Accountability and Transparency
We believe in being transparent with our readers. If a story changes due to new facts, we update the article and make the change history visible when appropriate. Our goal is not only to inform — but to do so with integrity.