MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) – The Bemidji Police Department generally uses its Facebook page to alert the public to safety concerns, seek help in identifying persons of interest and connect lost pets to their owners.
But Chief Mike Mastin says the department's use of the social media platform may soon change, as officials have noticed an increase in racist and derogatory messages in the comments.
"While the 1st Amendment protects the freedom of speech, these comments serve no purpose but to perpetuate hate and racism," Mastin wrote this week on the department's Facebook page.
The chief said that due to the department's small size, it doesn't have the staff to monitor the comments on the Facebook page around the clock. As such, the department will be evaluating how it uses the platform going forward.
"Please be patient and respectful as we navigate the complex laws surrounding social media, government entities and the freedom for speech," Mastin wrote.
Bemidji Police Department Evaluating How It Uses Facebook After Noticing Spike In Racist Comments
/ CBS Minnesota
MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) – The Bemidji Police Department generally uses its Facebook page to alert the public to safety concerns, seek help in identifying persons of interest and connect lost pets to their owners.
But Chief Mike Mastin says the department's use of the social media platform may soon change, as officials have noticed an increase in racist and derogatory messages in the comments.
"While the 1st Amendment protects the freedom of speech, these comments serve no purpose but to perpetuate hate and racism," Mastin wrote this week on the department's Facebook page.
The chief said that due to the department's small size, it doesn't have the staff to monitor the comments on the Facebook page around the clock. As such, the department will be evaluating how it uses the platform going forward.
"Please be patient and respectful as we navigate the complex laws surrounding social media, government entities and the freedom for speech," Mastin wrote.
In:
Featured Local Savings
CBS News Minnesota
Fridley police seek info on 2 loose dogs that killed a pet
Chamblee police launch real-time crime center to boost citywide safety
Dallas police officer arrested for allegedly spitting on another officer during transport, warrant states
Milford police chief issues warning over e-bikes
Baby inside stolen car found safe, Minneapolis police say
Police chief retires days after footage released of shooting of man with autism
Atlanta police seek suspects after shooting strikes school bus
Police seek man seen on video attacking NJ Transit bus driver at Deptford Mall