GRAND TRAVERSE COUNTY - Five sergeants with the Traverse City Police Department went through some unique training to become public information officers
These are the sergeants that are typically on the scene of any major incident - telling the media information that can be released the public.
These PIOs also meet with members of the media on a daily basis to answer questions and report any crimes that they want the public to be aware of.
PIO’s main job is to be a connection between the police and the public.
“It’s an added element,” said Traverse City Police Department Sergeant Reed Shea. “If you have the knowledge firsthand in how to handle that, it’s very beneficial for the future as well.”
9&10 News was even able to be a part of their training, and join in on a practice press briefing-giving the sergeants hands-on experience with the media.