Deputies to Continue Increased Patrol at Schools

Continuing every day through Dec. 21, a Pinellas County Sheriff's Office deputy will be assigned to provide a patrol detail at each of the elementary schools in the Sheriff's Office jurisdiction.

The increased security comes off the news of the tragic shooting at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown, Conn. At that school 27 people were shot to death.

According to the Sheriff's Office, a deputy will be assigned to each school during the morning drop-off times. In addition, extra patrols will be available throughout the day in the area surrounding the schools. The added police presence is intended to provide security and give some level of peace of mind to parents and students in light of last week's school shooting in Connecticut, a news release said.

Deputies have also been in contact with school administrators and offered to be available to answer any security or crime prevention related questions or concerns.

The Sheriff's Office will evaluate any additional directed patrols as needed going forward.