Baton Rouge Police Department to Reestablish School Resource Officers in East Baton Rouge Schools

In a recent Metropolitan Council meeting held on July 23, 2025, in Baton Rouge, discussions centered around a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) aimed at reinstating school resource officers (SROs) in East Baton Rouge Parish schools. This initiative, proposed by the Baton Rouge Police Department (BRPD), seeks to enhance safety and security within educational institutions, a response to growing concerns about student safety in the wake of national trends.

The MOU outlines the terms for reimbursing BRPD personnel costs associated with providing SROs for the upcoming school year. However, the proposal faced opposition from community members, notably Reverend Anderson, who raised significant concerns regarding the vague nature of the MOU. He argued that it imposes unnecessary responsibilities on the police while limiting parental oversight, particularly for parents of special needs children. Anderson highlighted a troubling incident involving a school resource officer and called for the item to be reconsidered, citing legal and ethical implications.

In defense of the initiative, Police Chief Odell explained that the primary goal is to ensure a safe environment for students by having trained officers present in schools. He emphasized that these officers would not only respond to external threats but also foster positive interactions with students. Chief Odell assured the council that the BRPD would uphold a high standard of conduct, addressing concerns about past incidents involving officers.

The council members engaged in a thorough discussion, weighing the benefits of having SROs against the community's apprehensions. Councilman Dunn sought clarification on how BRPD's role would differ from that of the East Baton Rouge Parish Sheriff's Office, which also provides security in schools. Chief Odell confirmed that both agencies would operate within their jurisdictions, with BRPD focusing on city schools.

Ultimately, the council moved to approve the MOU, with Councilwoman Harris and Councilwoman Coleman leading the motion. This decision marks a significant step towards reinstating a police presence in schools, reflecting a broader commitment to student safety amid ongoing debates about the role of law enforcement in educational settings.

As the school year approaches, the implementation of this agreement will be closely monitored, particularly in light of community concerns regarding safety and oversight. The council's decision underscores the ongoing dialogue about balancing security with the rights and well-being of students and their families.