Law enforcement places the utmost importance on ensuring the safety of schools
The Sheridan Police Department (SPD) is dedicated to ensuring the safety of its schools, with Captain Tom Ringley leading the charge. Currently, only one of the two School Resource Officer (SRO) slots is filled, with Officer Megan Phillips serving in that role.
Captain Ringley emphasises that school safety remains the highest priority for law enforcement. He dislikes quotas in policing, but insists on a requirement for officers to visit schools at random times throughout their duty day. This practice is designed to maintain a visible presence and provide immediate intervention, mitigation, and assistance with problem resolution.
Officers look forward to school visits as part of their patrol duties, according to Captain Ringley. He also serves as a liaison between the SPD and the Sheridan County School Districts, ensuring close collaboration between the two entities. Lieutenant James Hill also plays a role in this collaboration, acting as the liaison between the SPD and the school district.
The SPD's school safety practices and procedures are evaluated by the Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation. The department also collaborates with the Sheridan County Sheriff's Office, EMTs, and other local first responders to ensure comprehensive safety measures.
However, there is no publicly available information about the permanent deputy representative for the student area at the Sheridan Police Department. Despite this, the department's commitment to school safety remains unwavering.
Captain Ringley's discussions on the SPD's role in ensuring school safety highlight the department's proactive approach to maintaining a safe environment for students and staff. Officers rotate the SRO duty until a second permanent SRO is selected, ensuring that the department's focus on school safety remains constant.