School Shootings Rising: The Role of Armed Police in Preventing Gun Violence
School Shootings Prompt Armed Police Deployment
PITTSBURGH – A false alarm that a gunman was roaming one Catholic high school and then another in March 2023 triggered frightening evacuations and a substantial police presence in the city. These events prompted the Catholic Diocese of Pittsburgh to reconsider what constitutes a safe learning environment.
Formation of Armed Police Force
In the wake of fears surrounding school shootings, months after students were met by SWAT teams, the diocese began forming its own armed police force. Wendell Hissrich, a former safety director for the city and career FBI unit chief, was brought in to establish a department aimed at protecting 39 Catholic schools and numerous churches in the area.
- Hiring of 15 officers and four supervisors, many of whom are former retired officers and state troopers.
- Implementation of safety measures like Stop the Bleed kits, cameras, and defibrillators across school campuses.
With rising concerns about school shootings and gun violence, religious leaders sought advice on enhancing safety protocols. The formation of specialized armed forces for schools reflects a critical shift towards ensuring the well-being of students and staff amidst troubling trends.
This article was prepared using information from open sources in accordance with the principles of Ethical Policy. The editorial team is not responsible for absolute accuracy, as it relies on data from the sources referenced.