This publication provides best practices for Public Information Officers (PIO).
This document provides a list of best practices for Public Information Officers (PIO). Over the last two decades, a robust network has evolved to support the rapid and coordinated response to endangered missing and abducted children. Strong commitment and earnest collaboration between federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, broadcast media, and other web-based media providers (news outlets, social media, and private sector partners such as lottery and transportation associations) have vastly improved the nation’s response to these critical incidents. Law enforcement agencies across the country are increasingly recognizing the need for a dynamic and strategic communication plan aligned with critical incident management principles that can be swiftly executed when a child goes missing. An established PIO role within the critical incident model ensures operations are implemented without delay or confusion, and that the media is engaged as early as possible to establish a solid foundation for the release of information and updates as the case unfolds. When a child is endangered, missing, or abducted, the Public Information Officer (PIO) fills an essential role in law enforcement’s effective communications with the public, navigating critically important interactions with broadcast and online media providers. The overarching goal of the PIO is to promote swift and thorough sharing of information throughout the life cycles of these critical incidents while protecting the integrity of associated enforcement and investigative work in the cases as they evolve.