Weirton police to continue serving as school resource officers
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WEIRTON - For another year, officers with the Weirton Police Department will walk the halls of the three public schools located in the city.
Weirton Council, during its meeting Monday, unanimously approved a resolution authorizing the continuation of an agreement with Hancock County Schools to have Weirton police officers serve as Prevention Resource Officers at Weir High School, Weir Middle School and Weirton Elementary School.
"The resource officer program has worked very well," City Manager Mike Adams said.
The agreement notes the officers will be stationed at the schools in exchange for payment "in the aggregate amount" of $244,214 "to be paid to the City of Weirton, by the Hancock County Board of Education quarterly, in accordance with invoices submitted by the City to the Board."
The agreement will be effective from July 1 through June 30, 2027. It states the PRO program was established "for the purpose of preventing crime, mentoring youth, and providing for school safety."
In addition, "PROs shall consult and coordinate instructional activities through the principal. Activities conducted by PROs which are part of the regular instruction program of the school shall be under the direction of the principal. The BOARD shall approve the content of the educational programs and instructional materials used by PROs."
Funds through the program are used to cover the salaries of assigned officers, with the city responsible for any non-salary or non-benefit expenses, "including but not limited to travel, law enforcement training, gasoline, equipment, uniforms, telephone, vehicle and vehicle maintenance."
Duties are to include performing law enforcement functions within the school setting; identifying and preventing, through counseling and referral, delinquent behavior including substance abuse; fostering a better understanding of the law enforcement function; developing a better appreciation of citizens’ rights, obligations and responsibilities; providing information about crime prevention; providing assistance and support for crime victims identified within the school setting; promoting positive relations between students, staff and law enforcement; enhancing knowledge of the fundamental concept and structure of law; and being familiar with and adhering to confidentiality requirements.
Adams said he is hopeful to see the program continue beyond the upcoming school year.
"It's great to have our officers in those facilities," Adams said.
Hancock County commissioners also approved the agreement for the 2026-27 school year, with county officials noting five Hancock County Sheriff’s deputies will be involved in the coverage of the county’s remaining schools, which include A.T. Allison Elementary School, New Manchester Elementary, Oak Glen Middle School, Oak Glen High School and the J.D. Rockefeller IV Career Center.
In other business Monday, Weirton Council approved a contract for the disposal of municipal waste and recycling and a resolution granting advance approval for the appointment of 12 individuals to the Weirton Youth Council.
Prior to Monday’s meeting, council held a public hearing on a potential declaration of 1201 Hanlin Way as a nuisance property.