National Survey on Law Enforcement Agencies’ Social Media Engagement

• In Event: Police Use of Social Media and Internet Technology to Engage the Public

Abstract

Social media can serve as a valuable tool to disseminate information to the public, gauge community sentiment regarding agency policies and practices, and gather intelligence on criminal activity (e.g., gangs, sexual exploitation). As such, it has great potential to improve transparency, communication, and relationship building between law enforcement and communities. This study presents findings from a national survey of law enforcement agencies on (1) departmental policies on social media engagement and (2) organizational preparedness/readiness to engage in social media.

Authors

• Edward H. Mohr, Urban Institute

• KiDeuk Kim, Urban Institute

• Samuel Bieler, Urban Institute

• Emily Tiry, Urban Institute