OAK PARK, Mich. – District officials from the Oak Park School District are asking for assistance from the Oak Park City Council to help fund a police liaison officer in response to a string of violent episodes occurring around the schools.
Having the police liaison officer could cost more than $130,000 a year; however, supporters of the new position believe it is necessary. There have been more than 35 police reports during the current school year listing larcenies, assaults, drug possession and teens carrying weapons at Oak Park Preparatory Academy and Oak Park High School.
Supporters also believe that a liaison officer would give students a better understanding of the officer’s job, and would discourage criminal and violent behavior.
On the other hand, the opposition, including Oak Park Mayor Gerald Naftaly, said the district should hire security guards or retired safety officers because the attacks happening on the campuses need more assistance than just one officer.
The district offered approximately $80,000 a year to help fund the position. It is unclear when the city council will vote on the issue.
