‘It just needs to stop’: Schools across Central Virginia see an increase in security following Georgia school shooting

RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) — In the wake of the school shooting in Georgia, schools across Central Virginia saw an increased law enforcement presence on Thursday.

In Hanover County, the sheriff’s office made a post on Facebook to make the community aware of an increased police presence at all of the schools in the county.

“The reality is this can happen anywhere in the United States,” said Sgt. Steve Wills with the Hanover County Sheriff’s Office.

Officials hope the move will provide a sense of security during a troubling time.

“This is not something new. This is something traditionally we do oftentimes when something like this occurs and it depends on the length of time that we increase our presence there,” Wills said.

According to the Hanover County Sheriff’s Office, every school in the county already has an assigned deputy, but officials are hoping the extra presence will make a difference.

“Our main focus is just to alleviate the anxiety right now,” Wills said. “The best thing that we can do is just be well prepared in the event we ever have to respond to something like that here.”

In Richmond, Superintendent Jason Kamras put out a statement on social media to address families.

“My heart breaks at the news of the school shooting in Georgia,” Kamras said. “I’ve got nothing insightful left to say on this topic. It just needs to stop. RPS families, please note that I’ve asked RPD for an increased presence at our high schools tomorrow out of an abundance of caution.”

At a press conference on Thursday afternoon, Richmond Mayor Levar Stoney addressed the decision to have more officers patrolling high schools in the city.

“I am tired of seeing kids, unfortunately, being slaughtered in their own schools. It’s different now when you have a child. I cannot imagine my little girl going to school and not coming back,” Stoney said.

Goochland County Public Schools put out a message to families in response to the shooting, saying, in part, “please remind children to report any suspicious activity or concerns to a trusted adult, and review our safety procedures with them at home.”

A Caroline County Public Schools sent the following statement to 8News:

Every CCPS school building has a full time School Resource Officer provided by the Caroline County Sheriff’s Office.  Additionally, our FY25 budget funded the recent hiring of two School Safety Officers (SSOs) who will serve the middle and high school during the 24-25 school year.

A Henrico County Public Schools spokesperson also sent a statement about the possibility of increased patrols that reads as follows:

We are fortunate that Henrico County Public Schools has School Resource Officers and School Security staff at all schools as part of our existing (multi-layered) safety and security plans. I am confident that through our partnership with the Henrico Police Division, additional support could be available if needed, but they are not on school campuses at this time.

I would also note that school counselors and other school health professionals are prepared to meet with students who may be struggling after the Georgia school shooting. Resources and services are also available to HCPS teaches and staff who may need support.

Hopewell City Public Schools Superintendent Melody Hackney echoed other districts with a statement as well:

It is with a heavy heart that I address you following the tragic school shooting in Georgia. As your superintendent, and as a fellow parent, I share the deep sorrow and fear that events like this bring. While no words can truly ease the pain, I want to assure you that we are fully committed to doing everything possible to keep your children safe each day.

Please know that the safety and well-being of your children remains our top priority. Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims and their families, and we will continue working together to create a safer environment for all.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WRIC ABC 8News.