The announcements by the Hillsborough and Pasco Sheriff’s offices and the Tampa Police Department came in the wake of today’s shooting at Santa Fe High School in Texas.

HILLSBOROUGH-PASCO COUNTIES – Schools in Hillsborough and Pasco counties and in Tampa will see increased security next week.

The announcements by the Hillsborough and Pasco sheriffs and Tampa police chief come as a reaction to today’s (May 18) shooting at Santa Fe High School in Texas that left 10 dead and 10 others wounded.

“While there are no current threats against Pasco County schools, out of an abundance of caution, in light of the tragedy today at Santa Fe High School inSanta Fe, TX, we will have a heavy law enforcement presence near schools throughout Pasco County for the remainder of the school year,” Sheriff Chris Nocco said.

In a statement issued by the Tampa Police Department, officials noted that the police, the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office and Hillsborough County Schools talked today about what could be done to beef up security for the final days of the school year.

“We’re all on the same page,” police Chief Dugan said. “While there are no threats to our schools, we’ve all agreed we’re going to take a proactive approach. Students and teachers should be able to go to school and feel safe, and parents should feel comfortable sending their children to school.”

Hillsborough County Sheriff Chad Chronister echoed Dugan, saying, “Beginning Monday, May 21, there will be an enhanced law enforcement presence at every school in unincorporated Hillsborough County. … I, along with Hillsborough Public Schools superintendent Jeff Eakins, believe this plan will provide some peace of mind for parents and caregivers, and teachers and staff.”

Chronister issued a video statement:

“Today, our nation finds itself in the throes of another unthinkable tragedy at a school. The summer break was on the horizon, but now lives have been lost and countless others changed forever.
With heavy hearts, we send our prayers to the victims and families in Santa Fe, TX.

“The shock and profound sadness of yet another school massacre only deepens and strengthens our resolve to do everything possible to protect our most precious resource.

“Beginning Monday, May 21, there will be an enhanced law enforcement presence at every school in unincorporated Hillsborough County. Our school resource deputy program currently covers all middle schools and high schools, and half of the 80 elementary schools in our jurisdiction. Now every elementary school will be part of our security protocol.This enhanced safety plan will be in effect until the end of the school year on Friday, May 25.

“I, along with Hillsborough Public Schools superintendent Jeff Eakins, believe this plan will provide some peace of mind for parents and caregivers, and teachers and staff.

“We must always be ready to react and adapt when something horrific confronts us without notice.

“This community can and should be confident that your Sheriff’s Office is doing what it takes to prevent any tragedy in our schools.

“You have our solemn vow that we will not let you down.”

To see Chronister’s statement, go to youtube.com.

Photo of Hillsborough Sheriff Chad Chronister is a screen capture from the video. Courtesy of the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office.

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