Vinton County Sheriff implements courthouse security measures

Vinton County
Sheriff Shawn Justice

By MICHAEL O'BRIEN

MCARTHUR – Vinton County Sheriff Shawn Justice announced that, beginning July 1, new security measures will be in force at the Vinton County Courthouse.

“As Sheriff of Vinton County and charged with the security of every person entering the courthouse, I believe it is essential to have these measures put in place,” Justice said.

According to Justice, entry to the courthouse will be restricted to the main entrance on Main Street. Other entrances will be locked. All bags and briefcases will be screened and visitors will be required to pass through a metal detector. Armed courthouse personnel will conduct the screenings.

The county recently purchased an X-ray scanner as an addition a metal detector. The metal detector had been used during high profile trials and was located on the building’s second floor.

Justice said anything considered a weapon will not be allowed in the building and encouraged visitors to wear as little metal as possible.

Justice said the new security measures are necessary to protect courthouse workers and visitors.

“This is being done for the security of every person that enters into the courthouse and is not meant to be a burden to anyone. We are very sorry for any inconvenience this may cause,” Justice said. 

cleverpeasants@gmail.com
Twitter @cleverpeasant