PORT ORANGE, Fla. — The Port Orange Police Department has found a creative way to connect with the community and recruit officers.
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The department recently launched a podcast called “Orange Juice.”
Only Channel 9 sat in for the taping of episode two, which focused on mental health. Nate and Kim Ingram from Wellspring Port Orange Counseling were the featured guests.
Officer Chris Peterson said the goal of the podcast is to give the profession a more personal touch.
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“We really just want people to understand that we are approachable human beings. We want to talk to you. We want to get to know you,” said Peterson.
In March of 2023, Eyewitness News told you Port Orange Police had to lower patrols due to a staffing shortage.
The department is now almost fully staffed. Peterson said the podcast is a continuation of their recruitment efforts. Once they reach a certain staffing level, the department hopes to create more specialty units.
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“Not only does it help us reach possible recruits, but it just helps us reach other agencies and information sharing in that aspect as well,” said Peterson.
You can hear the podcast through the city’s website, or on apps like Spotify and iTunes. Episodes are put out monthly.
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