PHOTO: Courtesy of WLUK
MARINETTE COUNTY, WI (WTAQ) — Be prepared to see some changes the next time you visit the Marinette County Courthouse.
The courthouse has implemented new safety protocols.
Marinette County Sheriff Randy Miller says this is a proactive measure in response to issues happening at courthouses around the country.
“There’s highly volatile cases that are going on; you have victims, their families, and suspects and their families, so a lot is going on that could cause an emotional reaction,” said Sheriff Miller.
The new safety measures were implemented on Monday, and requires everyone to pass through a screening station with metal detectors before going to the 1st and 2nd floor of the Judicial Center.
The ground floor of the Judicial Center is the entry point for access to the Courts, District Attorney, Clerk of Court, and Register in Probate.
Law enforcement may also search handbags, computers, briefcases, totes, etc. Items that are deemed hazardous, such as any weapons, may be confiscated by law enforcement.
Examples of prohibited items include but are not limited to:
- Knives, razors, pointed scissors, or any other cutting devices
- Combustible gases or flammable liquids to include lighters
- Guns, stun guns, or any object resembling a gun
- Personal protection devices (chemical control agents, electronic control devices)
- Slingshots, metal knuckles, bow and arrows
- Incendiary devices, including flares or smoke bombs
- Explosives, fireworks, or their components
- Any item that is prohibited by law or deemed unnecessary or a threat to security
“One of our judges went through the screening station [on Monday] to show that it can be done, but the public has been tremendously patient and a lot of them are thanking us for helping to keep them safe,” said Sheriff Miller.
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