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Clinton Police School Resource Officer Discusses Benefits of His Role

A Clinton Police Officer who interacts with the youth of our community is highlighting why establishing relationships with our kids can be beneficial over time.

 

Officer Mike Bennett is the Clinton Police Department's School Resource officer and while many may think he's there as a security measure, he points out that is certainly true but believes his presence offers a three-fold function.

 

 

Bringing a personal touch to polarizing issues around law enforcement is also a big part of what Officer Bennett does. He indicates he has had very good conversations with students about topics of the day as it relates to police and for that, he feels brings a unique perspective for his students.

 

 

Officer Bennett also points out those relationships he forms in the schools can pay off when real-life situations come calling. He explains if he responds to a situation that involves a student he has had in school, it can often lead to a diffusion of the intensity or provide a calming presence for that person.

 

 

Last year, the Illinois legislature proposed putting an end to School Resource Officers in the school setting. Not only was Officer Bennett adamantly opposed to that measure, but Clinton Schools Superintendent Curt Nettles said he would personally drive to Springfield to testify in front of lawmakers to not move forward with such a move, a ringing endorsement of his support for Officer Bennett and the SRO program. 

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