Tougher security measures for Sparta courtroom

SPARTA — The Township and the Sparta Police Department must comply with a state-mandated requirement to implement tougher security and include weapons-screening procedures for those entering the Sparta municipal courtroom.
The state now requires a court security plan that includes searching every individual that enters the courtroom to ensure they do not bring any weapons inside. Currently, a Sparta police officer is visually monitors individuals who enter the courtroom.
There is also video surveillance of those entering with a direct feed to the police dispatch center downstairs from the courtroom. ut the state now requires that more specific metal detection devices be employed.
Sparta Police Chief Ernest Reigstad spoke to the Township Council last week to request the hire of two part-time officers to help comply with the new screening requirements. He said two special officers could be hired for $20 per hour, or around $24,000 per year.
Reigstad said the two additional officers would actually be a cost savings over using full time officers who would have to clock in overtime to do the job, which can run up to $100,000.
The proposal before the council is to hire two part-time officers and they would use a metal detection wand to screen individuals as they enter the courtroom.
If this procedure proves inefficient, the next step would be to purchase a security screening device similar to those used in airports. One part time officer would monitor this device, while the other continues to visually screen and monitor those entering the courtroom. The cost for this device would be around $5,000.
Reigstad told the council that besides being mandated by the state, the new security procedures are in Sparta’s best safety interests as well. He said Sparta’s municipal court is not just for traffic offenses anymore and that many third and fourth degree offenders are now seen in Sparta. He said, “We have a different clientele now.”
The council will consider a resolution to proceed with the new security measures and to hire the additional part time officers. The matter will be discussed at the next council meeting.