Random drug dog search at Vienna High School finds no illegal substances

FOX23 News at 9 p.m.

VIENNA, Ill., (KBSI) — A random drug dog search at Vienna High School on Tuesday turned up no illegal substances, according to school and law enforcement officials.

The Massac County Sheriff’s Office, working with the Vienna Police Department and Vienna school resource officers, conducted the search on campus. The sweep included vehicles in the student parking lot and lockers inside the building. Deputy Ryan White of the sheriff’s office and K-9 Chase assisted in the operation.

Vienna led school resource officer Carl Manley, who coordinated the search, said he was pleased with the outcome.

“We are always pleased when these searches result in nothing being found,” Manley said. “It shows that our students are making good choices and that our preventative measures are working. We will continue to do everything that we can to keep drugs out of our school.”

Principal John Giffin said the results support the school’s goal of remaining drug-free.

“Our expectation is that Vienna High School remains a drug-free campus, and today’s search reinforces that goal,” Giffin said. “This is only possible because of the strong partnerships that we have with law enforcement, the proactive systems that we have in place, and the culture our staff and students uphold every day.”

Superintendent Dr. Joshua Stafford said the district has maintained a clear stance for years.

“Vienna has maintained a clear and consistent message for many years: there is no room for drugs in our schools,” Stafford said. He cited evidence-based prevention programs with Arrowleaf, restorative policies, random drug testing and unannounced drug dog searches as part of creating an environment that supports healthy decision-making.

Officials said Vienna High School will continue conducting random drug dog searches to help ensure student safety and well-being.