It was probably only a matter of time before our courthouse became more secure.
Tighter security has been discussed for years but it took two incidents in the past few months to break the deadlock with the sheriff and the county commissioners.
Sheriff Joe Lester has the responsibility for securing the building but commissioners have to play a part in paying for a higher level of security than existed in simpler times. He has implemented some new security measures that start today.
They include public access to the courthouse through the west doors of the Courthouse Annex, an X-ray machine and metal detectors. The north and south doors will be locked and used only for emergency egress.
The east doors of the courthouse will be locked and secured as well, but will be manned by a Cleveland County deputy who will only allow access to employees and court officials with approved Cleveland County Sheriff's Office identification.
Mr. Lester has ruffled a few feathers with his deputies making traffic arrests within the incorporated limits of the cities of Moore, Norman and Noble. But the goal ought to be safer streets, no matter who pulls a motorist over.
Opinion
Tighter courthouse security begins today
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