People of Plano: David Tilley

Officer Tilley was named one of Nextdoor’s 2018 Neighborhood Champions in Law Enforcement // photo courtesy City of Plano
Officer Tilley was named one of Nextdoor’s 2018 Neighborhood Champions in Law Enforcement // photo courtesy City of Plano

Meet David Tilley, the public information officer for Plano Police. David grew up in Plano but now lives in North Garland, commuting to his home town for work. He has been with the police department for 23 years, and says he loves serving the city of Plano.

Officer Tilley, what does your job entail?

As the public information officer, or PIO, I handle all media inquiries related to the police department. I am basically the designated spokesperson for the department. I also manage our social media. Most of the services I take care of beyond the media would be answering calls from citizens related to questions they might have and also communicating with them on social media.

How long have you been with Plano Police?

I have been with the department for 23 years. I spent the first 14 years working patrol and then moved to this position in August 2011.

Officer Tilley with Plano Police Chief Drain // photo Jennifer Shertzer
Officer Tilley with Plano Police Chief Drain // photo Jennifer Shertzer

Tell us about the types of information you share with the public.

On nextdoor.com, I share crime information, safety events that our Crime Prevention Unit presents and other things related to the work our department and officers are doing.

Has there been a time when you felt especially proud to be part of Plano PD? 

Everyday. I work with some of the best. The officers truly care about what they do, and do their jobs at the highest level of expertise. Anytime I hear feedback from the community on something one of our employees has done, it really makes me proud.

How has the pandemic affected your job and personal life? 

I was out with COVID-19 for a couple of weeks which was hard for me because I love my job. Fortunately I was able to handle most of my duties remotely. Wearing a mask while at work has been an adjustment. I don’t enjoy it, but I do understand the need.

Officer Tilley with his wife, Whitney
Officer Tilley with his wife, Whitney
Officer Tilley with his sons and stepsons, Taylor, Greyson, Colton, Jackson and Cody // courtesy Tilley family
Officer Tilley with his sons and stepsons, Taylor, Greyson, Colton, Jackson and Cody // courtesy Tilley family

Tell me a little bit about your family. 

My wife, Whitney, works for the City of Garland. I have three sons from a previous marriage, all grown and on their own, and two bonus kids. One just started his freshman year at Texas A&M University and the other is a junior at Sachse High School. I also have one grandson, Ezra Cane.

What do you love most about Plano? 

My family lived in Plano when I was born 58 years ago but I currently live in north Garland. Plano has grown tremendously from about 5,000 people back then but still has that small-town appeal to me when it comes to community involvement. I love the diversity within the city, and the people here are kind.

We have pretty much any business you would need right here in our own city. My wife and I love to dine in Plano. There are so many options to choose from. When possible, I always like to support the small business owner. I am a believer that the “mom and pops” are the foundation of this city and we need to support them as often as possible.

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