Drug-Sniffing Dogs to Routinely Visit Clairemont High School

Clairemont High School's Arrow newspaper recently reported that drug-sniffing dogs are coming to school.

"Last year [the high school] received a grant from the [parent-teacher-student association] to pay for a drug dog inspection program. The grants were approved to bring drug dogs to campus for the 2011-2012 school year."

The canines are intended as a deterrent to students who might consider possessing, selling, or using drugs on the Clairemont campus. The October 25 issue of the school paper warned that "the drug dogs [can] detect chemicals used in most drugs such as crystal meth, heroin, cocaine, ecstasy, as well as marijuana, and even over-the-counter drugs such as Sudafed and Advil."

Currently, plans are to have dog visits to the school once or twice a month. The handler and dog will randomly enter classrooms; students will then be asked to leave and stand outside while the dog smells all belongings and seats in the room. If a scent is detected by the dog, the person’s belongings will be searched and the student and adults in the classroom will be detained.

The Arrow noted that San Diego, La Jolla, and Mission Bay high schools have used the canine services. “At these high schools with a large number of students, a good percentage have been apprehended each time the dogs come.”

(stock photo)