Going viral for the right reasons: Statesboro Police social media manager honored

STATESBORO, Ga. (WTOC) - From “Stranger Things” discourse to makeup advice, a local police department has made waves on Facebook feeds across the state.

The Statesboro Police Department Facebook feed is run by Community Information Specialist Ruth. Her voice is conversational - and occasionally tongue-in-cheek - a departure from the typically buttoned-up tone of police pages.

Ruth’s posts have garnered millions of views, likes and shares from residents in Statesboro and beyond, with Ruth often taking to the comments section to keep the discussion going.

On Monday, the department celebrated Ruth’s work to engage the community through social media. Georgia State Sen. William “Billy” Hickman presented her with a plaque that was read in the Georgia Senate.

“People have really enjoyed her quirky, off-beat style, which has attracted attention to our larger message of public safety,” Statesboro Police Chief Mike Broadhead said in a social media post. “The Statesboro Police Officer’s Association, a local 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, coordinated with the senator’s office to ensure he was kept up-to-date with happenings at the Statesboro Police Department. Way to go, Ruth!”

The department’s Facebook posts have been more than just pop culture banter. The account frequently shares important public safety reminders. In March, Ruth led a makeup donation drive to support Esther’s Place, a local organization that supports women going through struggles.