Write a Research Paper Thesis Statement: The use of social media platforms by law enforcement officials is restricted by a number of factors, including their First Amendment rights, department policy, and federal law.
Feedback to Learner from Professor 9/13/22 8:59 AM
Add a sentence or two perhaps to clarify. What I mean is when reading your sentence, it infers that the 1st Amendment restricts officer’s personal use of social media. That is not the case, it’s departmental policy that causes restrictions.
Research Paper Outline
Introduction
The public clearly understands what law enforcement agencies are allowed to do and are not allowed to do. It is essential to understand that free speech comes as part of constitutional and civil rights guaranteed by the First Amendment. Officers have certain rights that cannot be taken away, but Social Media is not one of them. The use of social media must be by a policy established by an authorized official, and their agency administrator or Chief must approve all information concerning an officer’s appearance on social media.
Thesis Statement
Law enforcement officers’ use of social media platforms is governed by various influences such as their First Amendment rights, department policy, and federal law.
Body Section
An officer’s First Amendment right to free speech
The law enforcement agency’s authority to create policies limiting their employees’ use of social media outlets.
Comparison between an officer’s First Amendment right to free speech and a law enforcement agency’s authority to create policies limiting their employees’ use of social media outlets.
Conclusion
Law enforcement officers’ use of social media platforms is governed by various influences. An officer’s First Amendment rights must be balanced against department policy and federal law, as well as their duty to act appropriately when on or off duty. Social media is a great way for police agencies to connect with the public and recognize officers’ positive actions. Social media use must always follow policies established by an authorized official for the law enforcement agency, and the agency administrator or Chief must approve all information concerning an officer’s appearance on social media.
