WASPC Communication Tool Kit

The Washington Association of Sheriffs & Police Chiefs (WASPC) has compiled this Communications Tool Kit for members as a resource for members to guide their individual policies related to best practices for communicating within their own communities.

No two law enforcement agencies are alike and therefore no single set of communication tools will fit every department.  WASPC is the only association of its kind in the nation combining representatives from local, state, tribal, and federal law enforcement into a single body, working toward a common goal. WASPC's function is to provide specific materials and services to all law enforcement agencies in the state, members and non-members alike. 

There are several existing law enforcement resources available to WASPC members (e.g. Lexipol, U.S. Department of Justice Community Oriented Policing Services) and are included in this guide as well as for use in their local media outreach. 

This toolkit is a benefit of membership for WASPC and was compiled by WASPC Communications Consultant GreatWork Communications.  GreatWork Communications is available to assist individual departments with communication services and counsel with the approval of WASPC’s Executive Board and its Executive Director.

Examples of Law Enforcement Media Relations and Social Media Policies

The following links will take you to a live version of the Seattle PD’s public information policies which are updated in real time:

https://www.seattle.gov/police-manual/title-1---department-administration/1110---public-information
https://www.seattle.gov/police-manual/title-1---department-administration/1115---media-release-officer-involved-shooting
https://www.seattle.gov/police-manual/title-5---employee-conduct/5125---social-media

WASPC provides communications and media relations benefits to its members.  If you would like more information and/or would like to request assistance, please click on the following services request form. Once the form is submitted, Barbara Smith, WASPC’s Communications Consultant, will be in contact with you to discuss your areas of interest/need.