Courthouse Security Inspection Policy
Purpose
To establish policy on guidelines regarding security screening and issuance of door access cards for personnel entering Courthouse facilities.
Policy
It is the policy of the Board of County Commissioners that all visitors and employees entering Courthouse facilities shall pass through the walk-through metal detectors and have packages, briefcases, purses, etc., screened through the x-ray screening equipment, or inspected by security personnel at the designated controlled access points. The only exception will be those persons, who by virtue of their position and assignment, are authorized to carry firearms into the Courthouse. These individuals include Judges, law enforcement officers as defined in Florida Statute, Chapter 790, and Hillsborough County security officers, while on duty. Such individuals, upon recognition by security personnel, are permitted to bypass screening equipment. Issuance of door access cards for entry through designated card access doors will be restricted to Judges, State Attorney, and other elected officials who are authorized to carry weapon into Courthouse facilities. Any exception to the policy on issuance of door access cards must be supported by strong justification and is subject to approval by the County Administrator, with the concurrence of the Chief Circuit Court Judge.
Responsibilities
It is the responsibility of Security Services operations of the Emergency Security Services Operations of the Emergency Support Services Department to implement and enforce the provision of this policy.