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The New Jersey Police Chief Magazine | February 2024
Continued from previous page to the public . Prompt communication can capitalize on fresh information in the minds of potential informants .
Typically , during significant incidents , a PIO might not be the first thought for officers on the scene . However , regular collaboration and communication with department members can ensure that involving the PIO becomes a more instinctive part of their response , allowing the PIO to fulfill their critical role effectively .
Fostering proactive communication and community engagement The PIO acts as a vital link between the department and the public . Communities are eager for information about ongoing situations and may resort to unverified or inaccurate sources if official information is not forthcoming . By positioning the PIO as the primary course of information , the department can ensure that the public receives accurate , timely , and truthful updates . In essence , keeping the PIO in the loop facilitates effective public communication and safeguards the department ’ s credibility and public trust .
Darren Wright is the public information officer for the Oro Valley Police Department in Arizona . He retired from the Washington State Patrol as a sergeant after serving 31 years . His final assignment was the headquarters public information officer ( PIO ), where he handled major media inquiries and statewide impact incidents and oversaw the district PIO program . He has a bachelor ’ s degree in communications and a master ’ s degree in communications with a public relations concentration from Southern New Hampshire University . He is an honorably discharged veteran from the United States Marine Corps .
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All meetings take place at the Doubletree Hotel in Tinton Falls , NJ . Breakfast begins at 9:00 am with the meeting following at 10:00 am .
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