A police department in Florida has gained substantial attention online after initiating a social media campaign designed to improve recruitment and strengthen connections with the community. Members of the Ocala Police Department discussed this initiative on ‘Fox & Friends Weekend,’ highlighting its success in showcasing the human side of law enforcement.

Officer Sean Price commented, ‘Social media has allowed us to shine a positive light on the department, especially after events since 2020, by showing that we have personalities beyond the uniform.’

The department’s latest video for the ‘We Do’ campaign, featuring Usher’s song ‘Daddy’s Home,’ reached over 19 million views on Facebook. It highlights officers in dating-like scenarios while performing their duties and includes questions like ‘Does he open your door?’ matched with footage of an officer escorting someone into a patrol car. Each scenario is answered with ‘We do.’

Corporal Alexandria Blackman described the campaign as a way to reveal a lighter side of the officers, noting positive reactions from the public. Officer Price added that the positive attention might lead to more applications to join the force.

Officer Clayton Brown advised those considering a career in policing to determine their motivation. He emphasized the importance of understanding and connecting with the community, saying, ‘If you want to reach our community, you’ll be there on people’s worst days. You need a good perspective and the urge to make a difference. We need good people, so if you have that drive, join us.’