Because the viewing public is exposed to so many programs, through news broadcasts, films, and T.V. drama, that involve police officers, the audience tends to accept the messages transmitted by these programs as reality. The effect of some of these programs could be to increase fear of crime among viewers or to dissuade them from seeking police assistance when and if they need it. The author also criticizes programs which label themselves documentaries, but deliberately present only one side of an issue. Too often, changes that have occurred in the British police service have not been reflected in the image of officers portrayed by television. Stereotypes used by many producers are neither honest nor truthful. The author suggests the implementation of regulatory guidelines that demand accuracy in television drama.