What does POET do?
The goal, for planned or unplanned demonstrations, is to have members of the SPD Police Outreach Engagement Team (POET) talk with organizers and ensure people can safely and effectively exercise their First Amendment rights. Members of POET wear special uniforms specifically labeled “POET”.
How has POET been received?
It’s innovative and a different way of thinking based on the latest research and lessons learned from the past. We’ve had some great success stories. Members of POET have found these conversations help build and expand community relationships.
How has POET grown at SPD?
Early members of POET at SPD visited the United Kingdom to learn about this model. United Kingdom police officers shared successes in helping with managing large crowds during political protests as well as helping to keep fans safe during sporting events.
In Seattle, Lt. Brandon James, a member of POET, shared a success story reflecting on demonstrations during a recent May Day demonstration.
“Using this POET model, I had our POET Team and officers out, and able to dialogue and engage, and really show that we can have this dialogue back and forth which can be positive and so they understand that we’re here for their safety,” he said. “I had several protesters come up to me and say, ‘You’re part of the POET Team, and I can see that you guys are out here trying to make a difference. You’re out here for our safety,’ and it’s a different posture, a different look than having our full turtle gear, riot gear on from the jump of a protest which really signifies that the police are ready for perceived violence when that may not always be the case.”
- Lt. Brandon James
How many people are part of POET?
POET is made up of about a dozen officers with many years of combined experience at SPD and throughout the city and a passion for engaging community members. Every person brings a special set of skills. The founder of SPD’s POET program is a lieutenant who has experience as a commander with the Hostage Negotiation Team. Communication skills are valuable in helping to start conversations.
How will SPD continue to grow and expand POET?
POET continues to grow as officers join the department, which has hired more than 100 new recruits and lateral officers in 2025 alone. It’s just one example of how SPD is making changes to connect with and better serve Seattle. We are showing our new officers, through training programs such as Before the Badge, how we expect all officers to engage with the community.