Hey @Oregonpd, keep up the good work!
Social networking has many uses: friendship, dating, business, worship, gossip ... but what about law enforcement?
Oregon Police Department has done a great job of keeping the public informed through the use of Twitter, a micro-blogging site that allows updates of up to 140 characters.
Here is a recent post from @Oregonpd:
Res Burglary 10/19/09 200 Blk S 9th St between 2p-4p younger (around 19) short to med brn hair, heavier and wearing a red plaid jacket.
Pretty easy to understand, right? Res = Residential. Blk = Block. And instantaneously, faster than you can say MySpace Music, the entire list of followers is alerted and can respond by direct message to @Oregonpd, or by the method directed in the update.
Another:
Reminder the detour route will be in effect for Sunday from 12p-4p for Autumn on Parade. No parking signs will be posted.
In this case, Oregon PD issued an alert and reminder.
Why is this cool?
1) It's free: Twitter accounts cost nothing to set up.
2) More and more businesses are using this tool for promotion and marketing (which means good deals for you!)
3) It allows alerts to be sent to a mobile device. Texting charges apply (from your carrier). You receive an update where ever and when ever.
IMHO, one becomes part of a larger culture. It's fun to watch your friends update their goings-on. In the case of a responsible citizen, sign up for police updates.
Imagine where this could go ... Twitter is just one example.
How about Facebook, MySpace, Yelp, or LinkedIn. Community members could create community watch groups online, start city council Facebook fan groups and upload minutes, or connect with local restaurant owners and reviewers on Yelp.
Need a career boost? They say it's not what you know, but who you know ... LinkedIn is like Facebook for professionals in all industries.
We can say @Oregonpd is on the right track. It's a step forward toward.
If you feel other agencies need to step up to the plate, let them know!
Write to them, share your opinion, and inform them of your concerns and/or ideas.
If we respectfully communicate our feelings, they will be willing to listen.
Again, good job, @Oregonpd.
The Oregon Police Department Twitter blog can be found here:
http://twitter.com/Oregonpd
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Angel Sierra is the Digital Production Coordinator at Sauk Valley Newspapers. Find something interesting in the world of science and technology? You can to write to him at asierra@svnmail.com. Your topic may be discussed in an upcoming blog!
