Updated with KUSD response
Kenosha---A long-time defense attorney says he's troubled by aspects of a new program that's designed to build trust between high school students and police officers.
Fred Zievers tells WGTD News that the 21-page curriculum, developed by the Kenosha Police Dept. for Kenosha Unified, appears to be a one-sided view of police/citizen interaction that's light on references to individual rights. "I think this programming is an attempt to reach across the chasm of mistrust and uncertainty about the police role in our society and citizenry but again, if it's not consistent with what legal rights and responsibilities (there) are, it simply becomes propaganda at that point," Zievers said.
The proposed curriculum and seven-session course are expected to be discussed at Tuesday's school board meeting. The lesson plans were included in agenda back-up material that was published late last week.
According to a preface from administration, the non-credit class would first be open on a volunteer basis to as many as a dozen students at Bradford High School. The course would be taught by police officers.
The syllabus includes lessons on reasonable suspicion, probable cause and police stops. Absent are references to the right to remain silent and have an attorney present when being questioned, as well as other key individual rights.
It's possible that the officers who would teach the course could deviate from the syllabus and present a balanced and thorough view of the subject matter, but Zievers says he's skeptical.
Zievers says the school board should contact the local bar association for additional input.
In a response, KUSD Chief Communications Officer Tanya Ruder said Monday night that feedback is welcome. "This is a new pilot program being offered in conjunction with the Kenosha Police Department," she said. "As such, the content is not final and additions and changes to make it the best it can be will certainly be considered."
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