CHARLES TOWN, W.Va. — When students enter Washington High School next week, there will be a new face in uniform guarding them.
Charles Town Police Cpl. J.T. DeSarno will begin his new role as the school’s resource safety officer. The 12-year veteran of the force is ready for this new role.
“I look at this as an opportunity to help out the kids. I’m just somebody else to help them succeed and get wherever they need to be at life.”
The Jefferson County Board of Education is putting $60,000 toward Cpl. DeSarno’s salary and benefits. The City of Charles Town will also provide funding for his equipment, training and overtime.
Cpl. DeSarno said parents may have concerns about the school’s need for a resource officer, but he believes a law enforcement presence can have a lasting, positive impact.
“Kids are still impressionable. Kids see one thing or one interaction or one conversation and their whole outlook can change,” he said. “As a police officer my number one job is safety. As long as I’m there I’ll do everything in my power to keep them [students] that way.”
Cpl. DeSarno has already talked to Sgt. Benjamin Williams, Jefferson High School’s resource officer, for advice.
“I know Sgt. Williams at Jefferson. He’s done a fantastic job. I’ve talked with him. I’ll need to work with Principal Marcus and the staff to see what works and doesn’t work. My ultimate goals are to be a positive influence to the kids and be there for them.”
Cpl. Desarno’s first official day on the job will be on Tuesday, January 15.