How to help reporters find golden quotes

You’re looking for a quote from an expert related to the news story you’re putting together about minimizing your risk of becoming a crime victim.

You’re fortunate enough to get a smart crime expert on the phone, and lucky for you, he’s experienced enough with media interviews to know he has to keep his answers short (no longer than one minute each).

Here’s one exchange from the interview:

Question: “Are certain people more likely to become a victim of a mugging? What advice do you have to avoid becoming a victim?”

ANSWER: “Well, these are crimes of opportunity. I mean, the stereotypical thing we all think about is old ladies getting mugged or having their purses snatched—and certainly that happens occasionally. And it’s obviously horrible when we see that, because they’re among the most vulnerable people in our society and it often shatters their sense of safety. I’ve even seen victims who essentially become shut-ins because they’re so scared, but I’ve also seen really big men mugged by smaller criminals with a weapon. Catch those big guys off guard, and they’re susceptible, too. So, I’d say to everyone to be aware of their environment and, like I said before, remember that anyone can be a victim.”