— In California, the California Court of Appeal overturned a probation condition requiring a search of a student’s electronic devices. The student was declared a ward of the juvenile court after being found vaping and in possession of a knife at school. The juvenile court imposed an electronic search condition, requiring the student to submit to search and seizure of electronic devices within his control, and disclose passwords or other information required for access. The appellate court disagreed, ruling that a probation condition must be “information in the record establishing a connection between the search condition and the probationer’s criminal conduct or personal history.” (In re Austin H.)
— In Virginia, Southwest Virginia school boards are adopting resolutions in support of school resource officers. The resolution is meant to send Gov. Ralph Northam’s office a message that SROs play a vital role in safety and the community.
— In Arkansas, the Fayetteville City Council votes down funding for additional school resource officers. The officials were unable to agree on the roles and qualifications of the persons who would serve as SROs. One proposal was that the person be licensed in social work, therapy or similar field. The deputy Police Chief said finding a qualified applicant would be extremely difficult.
— In Michigan, the Ypsilanti Community Schools Board has ended its school resource officer program. Parents said they’d still like to see the district partner with law enforcement in other ways.