/cloudfront-us-east-1.images.arcpublishing.com/gray/GXJREXULFRBAXGRJHHBIGLCZR4.jpg)
LANSING, Mich. (WILX) – Michigan State Capitol security teams now have all the information they need to operate the building’s newly installed weapons detectors.
Tens of thousands of visitors walk through the Michigan Capitol doors every year, and they can expect to pass through the added security measures before heading inside.
Over the course of several days, five Evolv walkthrough security systems were placed at visitor and employee entryways. After security personnel underwent training sessions in Heritage Hall Thursday, the detectors have officially been switched on and put to use.
The push for added security was made by the Michigan State Capitol Commission, which approved the installations earlier this year. Until recently, being armed with a weapon of any kind was no reason to keep someone from entering the Capitol. But after witnessing a protest-turned armed-storming of the building in 2020, it prompted some commission members to reconsider.
“We had people sitting in the gallery of the Senate with long guns, while legislators were exercising their constitutional duties of debate on issues,” said Commission Chair Bill Kandler. “It just seemed wrong. It seemed contrary to our democratic process.”
The Evolv walkthrough system will be familiar to people who’ve been to the airport, live music events, or college sports games, but it’s the first time that weapons detectors have been brought into the Capitol. Guns, knives, bombs, even 3-D printed materials can all trigger the system’s alarm.
If the detector’s light turns red, that individual will be pulled aside for a second scan with a handheld wand. Michigan State Police officers overseeing the doorway will already know where the potential weapon is located, indicated by a red square shown on the tablet that comes with each system.
“It wasn’t a hassle,” said Capitol intern James Greenfield, who’d already been through the detector more than once. “It was no problem. It was great.”
Easy-to-use is exactly what Capitol Commission Executive Director Robert Blackshaw was hoping for with the weapons detectors. He said the Evolv system is also being used by Oxford Schools, and that their security teams have found success with keeping an even flow of foot traffic. Blackshaw is expecting the same result at the Capitol.
“After about a month, when we perfect our procedures and policies, the traffic flow will be just like any other building that you go into,” he said.
Although Sen. Sam Singh, (D)- East Lansing, wasn’t on the senate floor during the 2020 protest, it’s a place he spends plenty of time. He said it’s about time that Michigan’s State Capitol catch up with others around the nation.
“I’ve been to many other state capitols, they have these same protections, and I’m glad they’re finally here,” he said.
Blackshaw said weapons detectors are only the start of what’s to come for Capitol security. In the near future, he said the commission will bring in X-Ray weapons detectors as well. For now, they’re letting employees and the general public adjust to the current equipment.
Subscribe to our News 10 newsletter and receive the latest local news and weather straight to your email every morning.
Copyright 2023 WILX. All rights reserved.
YPSILANTI TOWNSHIP, Mich. – Two Washtenaw County deputies were taken to the hospital after a crash at Michigan Avenue.
The crash happened Saturday, June 29, 2024, at the intersection of Michigan Avenue and Prospect Street in Ypsilanti Township, according to the Washtenaw County Sheriff’s Office.
Officials said a patrol car was heading to a call when another vehicle collided with it at the intersection.
Two deputies were taken to a nearby hospital. They are expected to be OK, according to a spokesperson from the sheriff’s office.
“We are thankful that no one was seriously injured,” the department posted on Facebook.
Copyright 2024 by WDIV ClickOnDetroit – All rights reserved.
Last season, Michigan State men’s basketball faced a disappointing end in the 2024 NCAA Tournament, failing to live up to their usual high standards.
Despite entering with high expectations, the Spartans struggled with consistency and cohesion on the court, ultimately falling short of advancing deep into the postseason. The team, known for its strong defensive play and resilience under pressure, found themselves outmatched in critical moments, leading to an earlier exit than fans and analysts anticipated.
However, this setback has fueled a resurgence in the team’s determination and focus for the upcoming season. Head coach Tom Izzo, renowned for his ability to motivate and develop talent, has used the offseason to recalibrate and strengthen the roster. Key recruits and transfers have bolstered the team’s depth and versatility, addressing gaps that were evident during their previous campaign. This infusion of new talent, combined with returning players eager to prove themselves, has created a dynamic and competitive atmosphere within the squad.
One of the pivotal factors in the potential resurgence for Michigan State is its renewed emphasis on player development and strategic adjustments. Coach Izzo has emphasized improving offensive efficiency while maintaining their trademark defensive prowess. This strategic evolution aims to create a more balanced team capable of dominating both ends of the floor, a formula that has proven successful in past championship runs.
Moreover, the camaraderie and chemistry among players have been noticeably stronger during preseason workouts and scrimmages. Team leaders have emerged to guide and mentor younger players, fostering a cohesive unit that is not only talented individually but also cohesive as a collective force. This cohesion will be crucial in navigating the challenges of a demanding schedule and highly competitive conference play.
As the new season approaches, expectations are cautiously optimistic but palpable among the Michigan State faithful. The team’s trajectory suggests they are on track for a strong season, poised to reclaim their status as contenders on the national stage. With a blend of seasoned veterans and promising newcomers, coupled with the strategic acumen of Coach Izzo, Michigan State men’s basketball appears primed to redeem last season’s disappointments and make a compelling case for championship contention once again.
Don’t forget to follow the official Spartan Nation Page on Facebook Spartan Nation WHEN YOU CLICK RIGHT HERE, and be a part of our vibrant community group Go Green Go White as well WHEN YOU CLICK RIGHT HERE.
1/21
GRAND RAPIDS, MI — West Michigan’s Millennium Park is the region’s largest urban park, offering hiking, biking, fishing, swimming and kayaking among other outdoor activities.
The park, located at 1415 Maynard Ave. SW in Walker, is open to the public from 7 a.m. to sunset May to October.
If you purchase a product or register for an account through a link on our site, we may receive compensation. By using this site, you consent to our User Agreement and agree that your clicks, interactions, and personal information may be collected, recorded, and/or stored by us and social media and other third-party partners in accordance with our Privacy Policy.
/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/25511693/2151765596.jpg)
Tracking a Single Day at the National Domestic Violence Hotline
What's the Least Amount of Exercise I Can Get Away With?
Supreme Court upholds law barring domestic abusers from owning guns in major Second Amendment ruling | CNN Politics
Israel accepts bilateral meeting with EU, but with conditions
Trump classified docs judge to weigh alleged 'unlawful' appointment of Special Counsel Jack Smith
Supreme Court upholds federal gun ban for those under domestic violence restraining orders
New Caledonia independence activists sent to France for detention
Is Israel’s Smotrich fulfilling his dream of annexing the West Bank?
