Police Begin ‘Safe School Program’ at Belmont High
Los Angeles police have began a “safe school program” at Belmont High School in an effort to stem problems with drug dealing, gangs and other criminal activity near the school.
Police Chief Daryl F. Gates, Councilwoman Gloria Molina and Belmont Principal Martha Bin announced the start of the program Wednesday. Molina said officials have noticed an increase in crime in the 4th Street and Loma area after a crackdown on crime in the MacArthur Park area. The program will increase the number of police officers around the school from 6 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Bin said the program is expected to help the school reduce its absentee rate to less than 10%. The presence of police encourages youths who may be fearful of being attacked to return to school. Attendance has risen at schools with similar programs, Gates said.
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