September 28 , 2007

Commissioners Unveil Courthouse Contraband Display, Punctuating National Preparedness Month

Second-floor Security Entrance Display Underscores Security Screening Success

Before a packed breakfast meeting of the Central Bucks Chamber of Commerce this morning, Commissioners Charles H. Martin, James F. Cawley, Esq., and Sandra A. Miller delivered their annual “State of the County” addresses. During his remarks, Vice-Chairman Cawley highlighted many of the efforts the commissioners are taking to ensure public safety at all levels – including visitors and employees at the Bucks County Courthouse in Doylestown Borough.

Brandishing a brass-headed cane that opened to reveal an expertly sharpened, 18-inch sword blade, Cawley explained that courthouse security screening personnel discovered and confiscated the weapon last week. “Aren’t you feeling a lot better if you were in the courthouse, to know that our metal detectors found this?” Cawley asked the gathering, which also received “Ready Bucks” brochures detailing how to prepare your family for an emergency.

Stressing the importance of maintaining a state of constant “vigilance,” Commissioners Martin, Cawley and Miller also announced the unveiling of a contraband display at the second-floor security entrance to the courthouse. A large silver-and-glass case adjacent to the security office is prominently marked, “Ensuring Your Safety: Items Collected by Bucks County Security.” Inside the case is a representative sampling of seized weapons – some of them concealed – including another 18-inch cane blade, a paintball rifle, a butterfly knife, a switchblade lighter, brass knuckles that open into a knife, and a razor hidden in a key ring. The display will be open for public viewing during all regular courthouse hours.

“As we conclude the 2007 observance of National Preparedness Month, we offer our pledge to all citizens that we will continue to be diligent at every turn with regard to preparedness, security, and emergency response and recovery,” Commissioner Martin noted.

During her remarks, Commissioner Miller discussed the many positive changes that have taken place during her 16 ½ years serving Bucks County, many of them public safety related. “We remain committed to providing a superior quality of life,” she insisted.