Schools embracing powers for police
New law allows districts to authorize officers, set policies and obtain law enforcement training

Andy Gammill:

Half a dozen Indiana school boards are considering whether to take on the new responsibility of authorizing police officers.

The move could create a minefield of issues from issuing badges to setting policies. So far, Pike Township Schools may be the only district to use a new law that allows school boards to appoint officers.

Previously, school districts could not grant police powers, although several have long said they have "police departments" that derive authority from a local sheriff or police chief.

In districts that convert, students will see little difference. A badge or uniform may change, but few officers will change duties.

The change affects school boards, which will have greater responsibility for making police policy regarding training, firearms use, police chases and various protocols.

Any school police policy entrusted to mayors and sheriffs would rest with school boards, too.
Pike Township Schools became the first school district to launch its own police department in July. Brownsburg, Center Grove and Indianapolis Public Schools are among those considering the change.

Related: Gangs & School Violence Forum audio / video.

Posted by Jim Zellmer at February 4, 2008 10:00 AM
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