Upper Merion police begin random school patrols

Spurred by the tragedy in Newtown, Conn., Upper Merion police began foot patrols Wednesday inside the township's schools.

"Our main goal is to make these schools a less-appealing target because any potential actors will be aware that the police are often at the school and may arrive at any moment," Police Chief Tom Nolan said.

Patrols of the township's schools will be random and have the blessing of public and private school officials, Nolan said.

In addition to trying to deter bad acts, the patrols will help children become comfortable with officers' presence in their schools, said Jane Callaghan, Upper Merion superintendent.

The school district has given the Police Department key cards to allow access to school property. Officers will not be at each school every day.

Nolan said the Bridgeport Police Department had also agreed to do foot patrols at Bridgeport Elementary School.