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Baltimore Co. School Resource Officers To Be Given Handheld Metal Detectors

TOWSON, Md. (WJZ)--Baltimore County schools will have add new security measures in the wake of this year's gun incidents. Meghan McCorkell has the details.

County police are still outside the middle school and officials say people can expect to see more police presence in schools around the county.

Two guns inside two different Baltimore County schools in just the first two weeks of classes. Now county leaders are taking action.

"We also need to take immediate steps to reassure parents, students and the school staff that our schools are safe---not only today, but also tomorrow," said County Executive Kevin Kamenetz.

Starting immediately, all school resource officers will be given metal detector wands. The wands will only be used if an officer suspects a crime is or is about to be committed. Police will also beef up presence outside schools.

"Over the next several weeks and months, you'll see an increased presence of police officers in and out of our schools," said Chief James Johnson.

Meantime, the school system is undergoing a widespread security review.

"Right now, the staff and I are doing a comprehensive approach of our entire school system," said School Superintendent Dr. Dallas Dance.

Police, county and school leaders are looking for ways to prevent guns from getting through these doors.

Dr. Dance called for that comprehensive review of all school security procedures after the incident at Perry Hall.

Link: Stemmers Run Middle School Student Brings Loaded Gun To School; Weapon Seized

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