Police Patrols Up at Wayne Schools After CT Shooting

Security has been increased at the town’s14 public schools following the horrific school shootings at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown Conn. where 28 people, including the gunman, were killed.

Beginning Friday, after authorities learned of the shootings, police patrols increased at each school.

Uniformed and plainclothes police officers will continue to patrol each school throughout the week, said Chief John Reardon.

“I think everyone has on extreme sense of awareness now after what happened on Friday,” Reardon said. “What is happening now is probably similar to what is happening in any town in the country right now.”

Reardon said officers are walking through school buildings as an extra precaution to ensure everyone’s safety.

Superintendent Ray Gonzalez said that the district has a newly-revised safety and security plan. Schools engage in periodic drills when classes are in session so staff and students know exactly what to do in the “unlikely event of an emergency, Gonzalez said in a statement issued Monday afternoon.

“Wayne Township Public Schools continues to work with our local police department to ensure that each of our 14 schools enjoy the benefit of a consistent, daily police presence at this time,” Gonzalez’s statement read. “This district is strongly committed to a vigorous security program to make sure our schools remain safe, welcoming, and caring environments, free of fear.”

Reardon said residents should call 911 immediately to report any suspicious activity they observe occurring.

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