New Hope Pd suspends SRO

[admin]

A message from New Hope Police Chief Tim Hoyt

For many years, the staff of the New Hope Police Department has worked closely with District 281 administration and staff to provide the safest possible environment for all students, staff, and anyone visiting Cooper High School. Our School Resource Officers (SROs) have represented our department with the utmost professionalism and have maintained relationships with staff and students alike that have contributed to the safety in the building. The New Hope Police Department deeply values this partnership with District 281 and Cooper High School.

With the recent amendments to Minnesota Statutes, the standard for the use of reasonable force has been changed by the legislature in 121A.582 Subd. 1. A violation of the new statutory language by an SRO (or “agent of the district”) could be construed as an “unauthorized” or “unreasonable” use of force, making the officer potentially subject to civil and/or criminal liability and licensing sanctions.

After careful consideration, our department continued providing SRO services at Cooper High School at the start of the school year. However, it has become apparent that the need for more clarity surrounding the legislative changes has created unsustainable challenges for our SROs. As such, the City has decided to suspend the current SRO Agreement with District 281.

Our department is committed to maintaining a strong relationship with District 281 while switching from on-site SROs to a patrol response for any district needs. Officers will maintain a visible presence on and near school grounds within our jurisdiction, including athletic and special events.

The New Hope Police Department remains dedicated to the safety of students and the community, and I have complete confidence that our response protocols will maintain our high standards for service for Cooper High School and other schools within our jurisdiction.