Family Focus

Safety and Security
Providing a safe, secure and healthy environment for all

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OPENGATE® Weapons Detection System

OPENGATE® weapons detection system enhances the safety and security of our school campuses. OPENGATE® is designed for the automatic screening of people with backpacks and bags for Threat Detection. It will also identify other contraband items that are not allowed on school property.

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BusPatrol

BusPatrol transforms student transportation by creating a system to sustain the safety of children as they travel to and from school. Through data collection and video monitoring, BusPatrol collaborates with law enforcement to issue citations and reduce stop-arm violations. Their AI-Enabled Stop-Arm Camera School Bus Safety Program solution helps police issue tickets and enforce critical law to change driver behavior.

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Walking, Biking  and Bus Stop Safety Tips

The greatest risk to your child is not riding a bus, but approaching or leaving one. Walking and biking to and from school can be a great way to teach them lifelong traffic safety skills. Before your child goes back to school by walking, biking, or riding the bus to school, it’s important for you and your child to know traffic safety rules and teach your child to follow school bus stop safety measures.

"Creating a safe learning environment is the foundation of a successful education."

—Unknown

Fake Threat... Real Consequences

Making a fake threat of violence is a criminal act that can land you in prison. It doesn't matter if you say it, text it, write it, snap it or post it on social media, students who make threats can face serious consequences. Even if it was meant to be a joke, calling in a fake threat of violence is a state crime in Florida, as well as a federal crime.

A violation of Florida Statutes section 790.163 or 790.164 (making a false report about a bomb, explosive, weapon of mass destruction, or the use of firearms in a violent manner, with the intent to deceive, mislead, or misinform.) is a second-degree felony which is punishable with up to 15 years in prison and a $10,000 fine. Adjudication cannot be withheld for this crime which means job hunting will become difficult. When you fill out job applications asking if you have ever been convicted of a crime, you will have to answer yes.

Also, if law enforcement responds to a fake threat that you made, you may also be required to pay restitution to law enforcement for any costs or damages that occurred while responding.

Safe Students, Safe Schools by LCSO

The Lee County Sheriff’s Office is committed to the safety and welfare of Lee County’s students. Services are provided to students and schools by the Youth Services Division, the School Threat Enforcement Team, and the Community Response Unit.

The Youth Services Division is comprised of 90 School Resource Officers who provide services and security to 71 schools within the unincorporated portions of Lee County. School Resource Officers are experienced Deputy Sheriffs who are assigned in schools full-time to forge relationships with students and ensure that Lee County Schools remain a safe and secure learning environment.

Sheriff Carmine Marceno created the School Threat Enforcement Team (STET) in December 2021 to address the growing issue of threats being made to schools, particularly online. STET is responsible for conducting all felony investigations at Lee County schools, school buses, and school bus stops, especially those related to school threats. Regardless of the nature of a threat, each incident is assigned to a detective to ensure no red flags are missed and appropriate action is taken in each and every case.