Computer, cameras stolen from PRJHS

PRIEST RIVER — The first time it was vandalism, this time it was robbery of computer-related items and digital cameras.

For the second time in recent weeks, Priest River Junior High School was broken into sometime over the weekend.

The break-in was discovered by school officials, who found a back door had been taken off to gain entry. They reported the break in on Monday morning to the Priest River Police Department.

PRJHS principal Gary Go stated the school definitely has some weak areas that have been addressed but the cameras and other security measures had not been installed yet.

Not only was the school ransacked for prime electronic items, but several items were personnel property of junior high staff members. Administrative staff said

According to West Bonner County School District School Resource Officer Tony Lamanna, "it goes back to the old security and law enforcement issues that you need to prevent crime and take security measures to prevent and discourage this type of problem. It's a lot cheaper to do that than investigate after the fact and try to apprehend and prosecute the thieves."

Several months ago, WBCSD maintenance supervisor Ken Eldore gave an update of planned security measures at all the schools in the district. The security plan draft showcased needs totaling $80,700. These include access control cards, security cameras, hardware and lighting improvements. The objectives are to increase security, provide accountability, create a deterrent, maintain access, and improve facilities.