What should officers avoid discussing in public or on social media?

• A. General departmental policies.
• B. Details of cases, including crime scene information and personal data of victims or suspects.
• C. Weather updates.
• D. Non-sensitive community updates.

Answer: (B)

Discussions about ongoing or recent cases must stay confidential in public or on social media. Sharing crime scene details, evidence information, or personal data about victims or suspects can disrupt investigations, tip off suspects, and deter witnesses from coming forward. It can also infringe on privacy rights and expose people to harm or harassment. In short, case specifics are sensitive information that should be handled through official channels rather than public posts.

Weather updates or non-sensitive community information are generally appropriate because they do not reveal investigative details or jeopardize safety. General departmental policies, when publicly available, are also fine to discuss, as long as you’re not exposing nonpublic operational guidance or internal procedures.