Pubdate: Fri, 26 Mar 2004 Source: Bradenton Herald (FL) Copyright: 2004 Bradenton Herald Contact: http://www.bradenton.com/mld/bradentonherald/ Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/58 Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/find?225 (Students - United States) PROTECTING KIDS FROM KIDS Sheriff's School Sweep Takes Suspects Into Custody Manatee County Sheriff's Department launched an operation recently that targeted students wanted for misdemeanor and felony warrants. It sent a strong message to our children: Don't ignore the legal system if you are charged with a crime, or you'll pay the price. At least 22 students who were pulled out of class March 17 for a variety of alleged offenses, including lewd and lascivious conduct and battery on a school official, had ample opportunity to show up for court appearances. But, for whatever reasons, they chose to turn a blind eye to the law. The active warrants for their arrests were served with no visible school disruptions, according to sheriff's department and school officials, and the juveniles were granted the rights guaranteed under our legal system. The cooperative effort between the law and our educational system must be lauded. The operation was conducted with professionalism and consideration of the educational environment, according to those who observed the process. School personnel brought the students to the administration offices, where sheriff's officials made the arrests and transferred the students to the Juvenile Assessment Center. Within hours, most students not considered to be a threat were released to the custody of their parents or guardians. More than 40,000 children attend school in Manatee County, so the arrests represent only a small percentage of those in the system. But it is important that school-age children understand the importance of obeying and respecting the law - a lesson that should be clear from the Manatee County Sheriff's Department sweep. School Superintendent Roger Dearing and Manatee County Sheriff Charlie Wells deserve praise for carrying out such a large operation in a clockwork fashion. And parents should be thankful that local law enforcement is helping to maintain order and safety in our schools. - --- MAP posted-by: Larry Seguin