City of Bartlesville temporarily deactivates Facebook pages following number of threatening comments

BARTLESVILLE, Okla. — The City of Bartlesville made the decision to temporarily deactivate the City of Bartlesville GOV and Bartlesville Police Department Facebook pages following an "overwhelming number" of comments that they said violated their social media policies and in some cases were threatening toward City staff.

The City said the majority of the comments were not coming from people who live in Bartlesville, but rather people from across the country and abroad.

Recently, a viral video surfaced of an incident involving a 53-year-old woman who was arrested by Bartlesville Police while rushing her granddaughter to the emergency room.

In the body camera video, an officer wrestled the woman to the ground after forcing her out of the vehicle. The woman was driving fast and changing through lanes of both directions to pass other vehicles which prompted a short pursuit, according to an affidavit.

Due to the number of comments they have received since the incident, the City said staff are unable to monitor the Facebook pages and continue to serve the citizens of Bartlesville.

The City said they are currently evaluating their social media practicing and looking at potential changes to allow better communication with the public regarding City information.

Until then, citizens are encouraged to use their website by clicking here as well subscribing to their newsletter, City Beat or reaching out by phone, email or visiting the City at their facilities.

The City released the following statement in part.

"We appreciate everyone's patience and understanding as we navigate these challenges. We anticipate our Facebook pages will be reactivated in the near future."