Books Magazine

Working with the FBI: A Brief Guide for Writers

By Dplylemd

Jan Burke and I recently had the FBI on Crime and Science Radio for a 2 part interview. It was outstanding. If you missed it, the shows are archived so go here to listen:

http://www.dplylemd.com/crime-science-radio-past.html

Crime writers are always looking for experts to chat with about their plots. The FBI offers just such access.

Need info on the FBI for your next story? Not sure how to approach them. Here's how:

Working with the FBI: A Brief Guide for Writers
WORKING WITH THE FBI: A Brief Guide for Writers

If you are a writer who wants to feature the FBI in a TV, film, and literary project, the FBI may be able to work with you to create an accurate portrayal of the Bureau's work.

The FBI's Investigative Publicity and Public Affairs Unit (IPPAU) in the Bureau's DC-based Office of Public Affairs works with screenwriters, producers, authors, and other industry personnel associated with TV programs, documentaries, made-for-TV movies, films, and books.

What the FBI needs from you:

* Company name, point of contact, address, email, and phone number

* Project status, i.e., sold, green-lit, commissioned, or speculative

* Scope of FBI's importance in the script

* Overview of FBI characters and actions

* Copy of the script or treatment

* Project status and/or production schedule

* Specificity regarding cases, procedures, or information needed

* A list of FBI personnel desired for interviews and/or background meeting(s)

What the FBI can consider providing you:

* Guidance on content and/or dialogue regarding FBI investigations, procedures, interagency coordination, structure, and history

* Information on costumes, props, scenery, or weapons

* Fact-checking

* Liaison and coordination with local FBI field offices for interviews or B-roll footage

* Coordination of visits to FBI headquarters and other facilities

* Background briefings

For project assistance, please send your written proposal with above info to: [email protected]. For further questions, please contact the FBI National Headquarters, Office of Public Affairs, Investigative Publicity and Public Affairs Unit at: 202-324-5348.

Please note that IPPAU considers and/or approves project assistance on a case-by-case basis. The FBI's unit has limited resources and cannot assure cooperation or offer reviews or critiques of submitted projects/proposal. Please allow ample time for approval/clearance process.

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