On August 18, Milford School District approved a new Use of Force Policy that includes regulations for when constables can unholster weapons. Although not discussed extensively at the meeting when the policy was approved, the changes were likely related to an incident at Evelyn I. Morris Early Childhood in December when a constable accidentally discharged their firearm in a break room.
“A school constable shall not unholster or exhibit a firearm except under the following circumstances: For maintenance of the firearm only in the event it is necessary to perform maintenance on the firearm on school grounds due to unforeseen, exigent circumstances such as debris or liquid being introduced into the holstered firearm and upon approval from the Supervisor of School Climate and Safety,” the policy now reads. “In all other instances, firearm maintenance shall occur off school grounds; To secure the firearm in an appropriate and approved secure area; During on-duty training, practice or qualification with the firearm, and under the supervision of a qualified range master.”
Although the district released a statement last year indicating that a firearm as discharged at the elementary school, there was no information regarding the reason for the discharge. Delaware State Police released a press release stating that the gun was “not handled properly.” No further information was released.
A motion was made by Jennifer Massotti to approve the change with a second from Matt Bucher. The new policy was passed unanimously.
