Court Security System Finds Potential Weapons

In its first three days of operation, the new metal detection system at Ukiah’s courthouse turned up at least 227 potential weapons.

So far, no guns have been found. But a number of people, upon entering the courthouse and seeing the X-ray machines and metal detectors, have turned and walked out, said Sheriff’s Sgt. Ron Welch, who supervises courthouse security.

Items found on people entering the courthouse include one bullet; 15 chains over 12 inches long; 10 corkscrews; nine Leatherman tools; two large safety pins; 10 pairs of scissors; one pair of handcuffs; five handcuff keys; and 174 knives.

“This is stuff that’s been coming into the courthouse for years. It makes one wonder what has come in,” Welch said.