speaker-photo

Officer Taylor Merriss

Special Projects Coordinator, Evansville Police Department
Taylor Merriss works within the Public Information Office for the Evansville Police Department in Evansville, Indiana. Since joining the department in 2015, she has played a pivotal role in enhancing community engagement and public communication. In her current position, Taylor manages all social media accounts, supports the Public Information Officer, prepares messaging for press conferences and engages highly within the Evansville community. Her efforts have contributed to the department's commitment to transparency, ensuring that information, including body camera footage, is made available to the public promptly during critical incidents. Taylor's commitment to public service and community engagement makes her a valuable asset to the Evansville Police Department and a respected voice in law enforcement circles. Taylor currently serves as the Secretary-Treasurer for PIO section of the International Association of Chiefs of Police.
General Session 9:00am - 9:45am

Wednesday September 10th

Policing in the Ages of Likes, Shares & Trust

<span data-olk-copy-source="MessageBody">In today’s digital age, every encounter between law enforcement and the public has the potential to be broadcasted, shared, and judged within seconds. This class, led by EPD’s Special Projects Coordinator Taylor Merriss, explores the evolving relationship between law enforcement and the communities they serve through the lens of social media, transparency, and public trust. This presentation will bring a unique perspective as both a law enforcement professional and a public information officer, offering practical tools for navigating public relations, crisis communication, and community outreach in a world where perception is often shaped by a single post. Whether you're a seasoned officer, a department leader, or an everyday citizen, this session will equip you with a better understanding of the challenges and opportunities that come with policing in a hyper-connected society.</span>