Seattle Police Department Social Media Use and Community Relations

• In Event: Poster Session

Abstract

This paper explores the current usage of social media by the Seattle Police Department (SPD). Also included are interviews completed with various members of the law enforcement community, other public service members, and a member of the local journalism community. These interviews inform recommendations made to SPD on their continued use of social media through expanded inclusion of other officers as well as training in creative writing. Academic research is also included, which explores different aspects of community relations and social media use by law enforcement agencies both domestically and abroad. Formal recommendations are made to SPD for future social media use and exploration.

Authors

• Chelsea R. Conn-Johnson, Seattle University

• Kyle Mansfield, Seattle University

• Alison Wassall, Seattle University

• Allie Lard, Seattle University