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Administrative Order – Courthouse Security

Whereas, the health, safety and welfare of the citizens of Desoto County are of primary concern to the Board of County Commissioners and this Court; and

Whereas, the Board of County Commissioners has appropriated funding for the purpose of improving the safety and security of those who conduct business within the Courthouse, including employees and citizens; and

Whereas, the administrative supervision of the Courts within this judicial circuit is the responsibility of the Chief Judge, as provided in Rule. 2.050, Florida Rules of Judicial Administration;

It is therefore ordered that

1. The DeSoto County Courthouse is designated by this Court as a facility to be secured;
2. Any individual entering the Courtroom area of the second floor of the Courthouse shall be subject to search, including the use of electronic or ether specialized equipment.
3. Anyone possessing any weapon or weapons or hazardous material or materials of any kind shall be denied access to the Courthouse unless said weapon or weapons or hazardous material or materials are surrendered to the proper authorities;
4. Anyone who refuses to submit to a search of his or her person or his or her bags, briefcases, pocket books, baggage or other similar, items shall be denied access to the Courtroom area of the floor of the DeSoto County Courthouse;
5. If any illegal weapons, explosives, hazardous materials or contraband are discovered, the proper law enforcement officials or officers shall be immediately notified for appropriate action.

Done and Ordered in Arcadia, DeSoto County, Florida, this 6^th day of February, 1989.

Gilbert A. Smith
Chief Judge