Editorial Policy

Editorial Policy

EastOklahoma.com is an independent news outlet. We answer to our readers and to the communities of eastern Oklahoma — not to advertisers, political interests, or outside investors.

Independence All editorial decisions are made solely by EastOklahoma.com staff. No advertiser, donor, or outside party has any influence over what we cover, how we cover it, or what we publish. Advertising and editorial operations are kept strictly separate.

Accuracy We make every effort to verify information before publication using multiple sources whenever possible. When we rely on a single source, we say so. If we make an error, we correct it promptly and transparently, with a notation on the original article explaining what was changed and why.

Fairness We give subjects of our reporting a meaningful opportunity to respond before publication. When someone declines to comment or cannot be reached, we say so in the story. We do not selectively present facts to mislead — if context matters, we include it.

Sources We protect confidential sources. When a source asks for anonymity, we honor that request while making every effort to independently corroborate the information they provide. We do not use anonymous sourcing for information we cannot verify through other means.

Conflicts of Interest Staff and contributors are expected to disclose any personal, financial, or professional relationships that could create a conflict of interest in their reporting. When a conflict exists, that reporter is recused from the relevant coverage.

Investigative Reporting EastOklahoma.com takes government accountability and public interest journalism seriously. We pursue difficult stories that powerful institutions would prefer go unreported. In doing so, we hold ourselves to the highest standards of evidence, fairness, and legal compliance.

Community Submissions & Tips We welcome tips, documents, and story leads from the public. Information submitted to our newsroom is reviewed by editorial staff before any reporting begins. Submitting a tip does not guarantee publication. Tips can be directed to our editor, Dustin Reed Terry.

Corrections Corrections are published as soon as an error is confirmed. We do not quietly edit articles without acknowledgment. Readers who believe we have made an error are encouraged to contact us directly.