Deer Creek Schools Beefing Up Security To Protect Students

There will be more Oklahoma County deputies patrolling the halls of Deer Creek Public Schools. The district and Oklahoma County Sheriff's Office (OCSO) announced they would permanently enhance security in the schools to protect students.

The announcement came in the wake of the tragic shooting at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown, Connecticut. A gunman killed 20 children and six adults before killing himself. Oklahoma County Sheriff John Whetsel says it's important students feel safe.

"Today we see these innocent faces. We will use all of our resources to keep these faces innocent."

OSCO held meetings Thursday at all of Deer Creek's elementary schools to explain the security changes to young students. The sheriff's office used mascot Deputy Brisco during the announcements so students wouldn't feel frightened.

"We wanted to show the children that we are here as their friends, that we are here to help make them feel safe," Whetsel said.

OCSO will also review all security measures at the schools, and offer advice on how to improve them.