NCJ Number
179764
Journal
Law and Order Volume: 47 Issue: 10 Dated: October 1999 Pages: 237-242
Date Published
1999
Length
6 pages
Annotation
The Clearwater, Fla., Police Department has developed an interactive television program called Blueline CPD, which has been both a ratings success and one of the most effective ways for the agency to market itself, its programs, and its officers.
Abstract
The program began in 1995 and is broadcast on public access cable. It has grown in length from a half- hour to an hour-and-a-half. The audience interacts in real time with the police chief, who responds to callers who pose questions, make comments, and sometimes present complaints. Computer crime mapping through the agency's Geographic Information System depicts crime in the neighborhoods where viewers live. The program originated in the need to reach more people than was possible in the time-consuming approach of speaking to neighborhood groups. Blueline CPD operates on a minimal budget with only one full-time employee, using the city's studio and staff for broadcasting. The program covers a broad range of issues, from traffic control to homelessness to gangs. It also highlights the accomplishments of police employees and presents film clips of enforcement operations. Blueline CPD is also a way to reach out to employees and make sure that everyone in the department sees their coworkers at their best. Other agencies considering such a program should determine whether they have the resources and capabilities, as well as the support of their city manager or chief executive officer. Such programs put law enforcement in a positive light and let departments demonstrate how responsive they are to citizens. Photograph