Drug search executed at WMU

WINFIELD - Social Media posts made by private individuals on Wednesday, Dec. 20 alerted several Winfield- Mt. Union district parents of potential police activity inside the school earlier that morning. Shortly after, the W-MU schools sent an emailed press release relaying the events of the morning and the cause of the police presence.

According to the press release, the W-MU school district, along with the Winfield Police Department, Henry and Washington County Sheriffs and K9 units, performed a drug search with the use of certified dogs earlier that morning. The areas searched by the dogs included parking lots, hallways and backpacks. The search complied with the W-MU Board Policy on Search and Seizure. More information on this policy is available on the schools website; www.wmucsd.org .

During the search, students were asked to remain in their classrooms and not roam the hallways, according to students and social media posts.

The press release noted that school administration will continue to work with local law enforcement to provide a safe and healthy environment for staff and students, and that the safety and security will always be a top priority.

No drugs or illicit substances were reported to have been found.

In order to provide as much transparency regarding the recent drug search at W-MU, Superintendent Dr. Volk wanted the community to know that the general intention of a (drug) search is not to conduct a witch-hunt, but rather to serve as a deterrent. “A search sends a clear message to students, staff and the community that we take safety seriously and we’re going to do what we can to make WMU a safe environment.” Dr. Volk doesn’t want the community to view the presence of law enforcement negatively. In fact, WMU is considering sharing a School Resource Officer (SRO) with the City of Winfield next year. “I have an incredible amount of respect for law enforcement who provide safety and security for our communities.”