The San Diego Unified School District might eliminate its own school police department. The district's police chief, Don Braun, is fighting back.
Braun heads a team that includes approximately 40 sworn police officers, 220 community service officers and eight patrol officers.
The school board is considering eliminating police services to deal with next years state budget shortfall.
Braun said that would pose a serious threat to student safety and cited the recent shooting at a Carlsbad elementary school.
He said his officers serve as the eyes and ears at each campus in the district.
“That's part of the value and the benefit of having your own police department,” he said. “There are 16 other school districts in the state of California that have their own police departments as well. The reason is to focus on schools, focus on child safety.”
Braun said campus security would have to be out-sourced if the plan is approved.
Cutting police services is just one option they're considering, according to district officials.
