Juridical Analysis of Defamation Against State Officials Through the Internet: A Case Study on Central Java Regional Police

This study examines the juridical aspects of cyber defamation against state officials through internet media in Semarang, Indonesia, with a focus on the enforcement practices of the Central Java Regional Police (Polda Jateng). The research aims to analyze the phenomenon, legal challenges, and potential solutions to cyber defamation, which undermines the authority of state officials and public trust in governance. Employing a qualitative juridical approach, the study combines normative legal analysis with a case study of Polda Jateng’s handling of defamation cases. Data were collected through legal document reviews, including Indonesia’s Electronic Information and Transaction Law (UU ITE) and Constitutional Court rulings, alongside interviews with law enforcement officials. Findings reveal that cyber defamation is driven by public dissatisfaction, political conflicts, and legal ignorance, exacerbated by the broad interpretation of UU ITE’s defamation provisions. The study highlights the tension between protecting state officials and safeguarding freedom of expression, as excessive use of UU ITE risks criminalizing legitimate criticism. Proposed solutions include preventive education on internet ethics, stricter enforcement protocols, and enhanced victim support mechanisms. This research contributes to the development of criminal law and information law, offering practical recommendations for balancing state authority and individual rights in the digital age.