Broward County looks to have its own school police force

FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. (FLV) – The Broward County School Board is considering a plan to build its school police force.

In a meeting on July 25, the district discussed creating its own unit of sworn officers rather than contracting out to local municipalities.

“I will go on the record to be firm that I think we should absolutely begin to formulary explore our own police department,” said school board member Torey Alston. “Not hybrid, but to have our own sole department stand alone for Broward County Public Schools.”

“It is time. Clearly, we understand the value of having school resource officers.”

Adjacent districts such as Miami-Dade and Palm Beach already implement a similar measure. Other areas use hybrid models or use a contract out system similar to Broward schools.

While the school district currently has its own police force known as the Special Investigations Unit, the move would vastly expand resources and its ability to hire a fully operational department within three years.

Superintendent Dr. Peter Licata was optimistic on the idea, but insisted the procedure would take time to develop.

“I don’t see an opportunity for us do that in the next year or two,” said Licata. “When we look at this contract and we look at three years with graduated increases, it appears to be an incredible partnership if we can get there.”

“I don’t feel like were insulting them or feel like were throwing them to the curb if we decide to get our own police force at all,” he continued. “As a matter of fact, we would work cooperatively with them, but the reality is its going to take a couple years.”

The proposal was also met with praise from other board members, contingent on a discussion at a later date.

Board members are looking to address the issue at a further workshop.

Costs for school resource officers have exponentially increased over the years.

The pay per officer was $46,252 in 2017, but has jumped to $103,000 during this past school year. Furthermore, Broward County has one of the highest pay scales in Florida.

In contrast, Lee County pays $50,000 while Orange County begins at $60,000.