Crime & Safety
Evacuation Drill and K-9 Search Held Monday at NMHS
New Milford Police and the Bergen County Police K-9 Unit conducted a search of gym lockers while students were out of the building
Bergen County K-9 units were on hand Monday at New Milford High School during a scheduled evacuation drill, according to the NMPD.
As part of the drill, which is mandated by the state to be held annually, students were relocated to the middle school where attendance was taken. Students then returned to the high school without incident.
"While the students were out of the building, Bergen County Police K-9 units conducted a search of the gym locker rooms," said NMPD Chief Frank Papapietro. "New Milford Police and representatives from the Bergen County Prosecutor’s Office were present."
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Papapietro said although two separate dogs showed interest in the same area, no illegal substances were found.
Prior to a K-9 search, permission must be obtained from the Bergen County prosecutor after a request is filed by school officials and the chief of police from the jurisdiction, said Papapietro. A representative from the prosecutor's office is always present as are local detectives, school resource officers and school administrators, according to police.
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“Although no illegal substances were found we will continue to maintain the offensive in this effort," said Papapietro. "Our close relationship with school authorities enables us to combine our resources to ensure that a safe learning environment is the norm throughout the district. “
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