Sterling Heights police patrolling utica schools

Sterling Heights Police are now randomly visiting 27 Utica district schools twice a day.

It’s part of a collaboration with the school district to increase security in the wake of school shootings around the country.

Police Chief Michael Reese says officers will fit the visits in around their other patrol duties.  “We have to do something to address the issue with the resources that we have available," he adds.  “And if it makes these kids and their parents feel somewhat protected – or a sense of security while they’re in school – then, you know, it’s worth that.”

Reese says the schools have made other changes as well.  “The school system itself, improved in house security systems.”  He continued, “what we’re talking about are cameras, video audio systems.  They improved that-they’re in the process of improving all their buildings with that.”

Reese says the patrols will allow his officers to get familiar with school layouts and let staff get to know the police in the community. 

He added that talks are currently underway with Warren Consolidated Schools about similar visits.

- Chris Zollars, Michigan Radio Newsroom