Jill Miner arrived at work feeling a little safer Friday.

The first working day of 1998 marked the beginning of major steps toward improved security in Kosciusko County Justice Building.

From now on, all visitors to the Justice Building will be greeted by law enforcement and pass through a metal detector. As part of the process, visitors will be asked to empty pockets of any metal objects. Anyone wearing objects that include metal such as belt buckles and steel-toed boots will be scanned with a hand-held metal detecting wand.

One officer will be stationed at the front entrance of the building. Another will be available to roam the courtrooms and provide backup assistance at the entrance.

The new preventative measures are aimed at curbing outbreaks of violence.

While nearby counties have dealt with at least one bombing (Kokomo) and a few shootings, Kosciusko County has had its share of minor violence. In recent years, a judge had to break up a fight and a man doing business in the building left and threw a brick through an office window.

"It makes me feel better to have the security," said Miner, a court reporter for Circuit Court.

She's never encountered any erratic behavior at work, but adds, "I think it's a matter of time because the volume in the courts is so high."

"I think it's a real good idea."

Friday was an ideal opportunity to begin using the procedures. Although it is typically the busiest day for courts, activity was quiet because it was the day after New Year's Day, officials said.

"Most people feel it's a good thing. We haven't had any complaints," said Ted Ward, who worked the door Friday morning with fellow officer Doug Brumfield Jr.

In recent weeks, more steps will be taken. Employees will be given magnetic identification cards that will be used to enter through the handicapped access door on the building's north side. Security personnel will also be armed with guns, said personnel director Ron Robinson.

Other more subtle steps are being taken. Old video cameras are being replaced and more are being added. Other entrances will be re-designed to provide better security.

Other changes are being made, but Robinson declined to explain. He said he expects some people to test security measures.

Robinson said officials would like to purchase an X-ray machine for the entrance so briefcases and purses can be checked more thoroughly.

The county has looked at a top-of the-line device that color codes objects, but it costs about $28,000. Robinson said they are looking for grant money to cover the cost.

Cost of the security upgrades, including the first year in salaries and equipment, could likely surpass $100,000.

But Brad Tandy, an attorney and county councilman who tested the metal detector Friday, said the improvements are necessary.

"It's unfortunate - the costs - but it has to be done to protect not only the employees but also the people in here conducting their own affairs," Tandy said.

Tandy said similar security measures in Plymouth, Elkhart and Goshen have resulted in guns being found on visitors.

Robinson said providing the same level of security for the courthouse is years away. The courthouse includes office space for the treasurer, auditor, health and plan departments.

Compared to some of those with criminal backgrounds who do business at the Justice Building, visitors to the courthouse tend to be more civil, Robinson said. [[In-content Ad]]