The Police and Social Media

Through our books and discussions, we have learned of many different uses for social media. We understand how individuals can use the platform for personal or business means. We mostly think of using social media to further a brand, message or idea, but Laura Entis’ article sheds light on a new use most would not consider. 

In her article, “The Crazy, Cool and Unsettling Ways Police Are Using Social Media,” Entis explains how police have been using social media and what that means for other users. She begins the article with an all-too-familiar statement, “If you want to successfully run an organization, you can't afford to ignore social media.” We already know this, so it comes as no surprise. The surprise came when she says, “That's especially true if you're a running a police department.” I think her choice of words is very interesting. It almost seems as though she’s saying in today’s world, the duties of a police department could not be done without the use of social media, which I find odd but interesting.

One aspect given to police departments through social media is the ability to connect with their community. I had never thought of it before, but now it seems like such an obvious fact. This is a great way to create bonds between the officers and community members. The followers of the pages and accounts could be given an inside to who the officers are. Through our class, we have learned the importance of establishing an identity for the page. By doing this, the police are giving a face to their accounts, creating a stronger bond with the users.

Much like with any other social media user, police departments received backlash on their use of social media. Recently, a Baltimore police department stated they are planning to soon begin live tweeting their sting operations. Because of the newness of social media, we are still sorting out what should and should not be allowed on the platform. This topic, in particular, seems to sit directly in the middle of what is acceptable and what is not and raises many questions from users. Some call it an unethical act, while others are rallying for the ability to witness and better understand the duties of law officers. The Baltimore police department has not yet given a specific date of when they plan on adapting the feature.

While there are some great uses for social media, there are also some questionable ones. Police departments are learning that as they embrace the social media revolving world.