community relations unit

APD Media Contact:

Deputy Director, CRU: Christopher Barraza

(907) 792-9419 | christopher.barraza@anchorageak.gov

Municipality of Anchorage Social Media Policy
Follow APD on Social Media:

Our Team:

The Community Relations Unit (CRU) serves as the vital link between the Anchorage Police Department and the community we proudly protect. Our team is responsible for managing all department-wide communications, ensuring transparency, engagement, and trust with the public.

The CRU oversees all official social media channels and manages the state’s largest government-run social media presence. We provide timely updates, safety information, and community highlights to keep the public informed and engaged. We are also the first point of contact for all media inquiries, coordinating interviews, statements, and press releases to ensure clear and accurate messaging.

We operate several key community programs, including the Ride-Along Program, which offers citizens a firsthand look at the daily work of our officers, and the Citizen Academy, a dynamic, behind-the-scenes experience designed to educate participants about law enforcement operations.

In addition, the CRU coordinates all public appearances, from school visits and safety presentations to major community events. Our goal is to build lasting relationships, foster mutual respect, and create a safer, more connected Anchorage.

The Community Relations Unit is dedicated to making a positive difference every day through proactive communication and meaningful engagement.

Requests must be made at least 30 days in advance.

invite an officer to your community meeting

Request an officer who routinely works in your area attend your community council meeting to talk about topics important to your residents.

Invite an Officer to your event

Request an officer attend your event as a guest, give a safety presentation, come to your community event, or speak at a forum or roundtable.

Ride Along Request

Citizens can request a ride-along with one of our officers. Riders must be 18 years old and pass a background check. Download the request form.

Citizen academy

Get a first hand look at a day in the life at Anchorage Police Department.