Residents criticize police social-media post showing firearms; commissioners caution staff about online conduct

PORT ST. JOE, Fla. — A social-media post showing Port St. Joe police officers posing with high-powered firearms prompted repeated criticism during the June 3 meeting and public calls for stricter social-media awareness among city employees.

Several residents said the photo, posted by an officer, presented the city poorly to tourists and was inappropriate given police uniforms visible in the image. One resident described the post as a poor message for a tourist town; another called the officers "stooges" in an exchange that drew responses from others in the room.

Commissioners and staff responded. A city official told employees they routinely advise staff that "social media can get you in a lot of trouble" and asked supervisors to remind employees about online conduct. A speaker who identified himself as working with law enforcement unions asked for accurate use of language and cautioned against name-calling of officers.

Why it matters: Port St. Joe officials said the city aims to be welcoming to visitors; residents argued that images of officers with weapons in uniform can undermine that message. Commissioners emphasized the need to remind employees about agency social-media policies.

What was said: One resident asked, "Does that say welcome to Port Saint Joe, Mayor?" Another public speaker asked supervisors to reiterate to staff that social-media posts can cause problems. A city representative said staff would remind employees of appropriate social-media behavior.

Next steps: Commissioners asked staff to continue reminding employees of social-media best practices and to address any specific policy issues through department supervision.