The Pleasanton Police Department is ready for its close-up.
In a social-media, savvy move to bridge communication with residents, the department has launched a YouTube webcast channel.
Dubbed "On The Beat," the YouTube channel and videos will provide updates on significant criminal cases, arrests, special events, plus crime-prevention tips to help keep Pleasanton safe, according to police.
The new webcasts will air at www.pleasantonPD.org and on the department's Facebook page.
Police departments, nationwide, are increasingly turning to such mediums as YouTube, Facebook and Twitter to inform residents and solve crimes.
The Philadelphia Police Department last month attributed 100 recent arrests to social media and help from the public.
Pleasanton police, however, face some stiff cop competition in the YouTube "view count" wars.
A video from the Tampa Police Department, set to catchy pop hit "Call Me Maybe" with dancing, lip-syncing cops, nearing some 60,000 views in less than a week.
Hello, Mr. DeMille?
