Judicial Center Security
In
February 1997, the Montgomery County Sheriff's Office implemented entry level
security screening of individuals entering the Montgomery County Judicial
Center. These screening stations are similar to those found in airports
throughout the world. Two uniform contract security officers operate each
security screening station. The screening stations are equipped with a x-ray
machine and a walk-through magnetometer, security stations are located at all
entrances accessible to the public. Persons entering the Judicial Center must
successfully complete the screening process. The Sheriff's Office also provides
24-hour closed circuit television (CCTV) monitoring of the interior and exterior
of the Judicial Center. Deputies and contract security officers provide patrol
functions and respond to all incidents occurring in and around the Judicial
Center.
It is the goal of the Montgomery County Sheriff's Office to
provide a safe and protected environment to both employees and visitors of the
Judicial Center. The Sheriff's Office uses trained canines to detect
explosives, weapons and to serve as a general deterrent within the Judicial
Center. The canine unit also responds to mutual aid calls from the Montgomery
County Department of Police, the Montgomery County Department of Fire and Rescue
Services and other law enforcement agencies when necessary. Deputies routinely
patrol the Judicial Center, maintaining a high level of visibility, ensuring the
safety of employees and visitors using the Judicial Center.
The Sheriff's Office supervises and trains contractual uniform
security officers. These security officers monitor the entry-level security
screening stations located within the Judicial Center. The security officers
strictly enforce the policy and procedures of the Sheriff's Office and any court
issued orders relating to entry-level security. Security Officers are required
to seize all weapons including Pepper Spray, Mace, all knives etc. and other
contraband coming into the Judicial Center. Persons entering the Judicial Center
carrying weapons that are considered legal to possess but are not permitted in
the Judicial Center will be required to surrender the property. The owner will
be given a property claim ticket. to ensure that all property is returned to the
rightful owner, persons picking up property must present this ticket to the
security officer when departing the Judicial Center. No one will be permitted to
carry any type of recording devices including cameras above the lobby level of
the Judicial Center. Violation of security policies could result in criminal
and/or civil charges.
The Sheriff's Office strictly enforces parking in and around the
Judicial Center. Any vehicles found in violation will be ticketed and towed at
the owner's expense.
