Common use of Investigation and Questioning Clause in Contracts

Investigation and Questioning. SROs have the authority to question students who may have information about criminal activity. As sworn law enforcement officers, SROs have authority to stop, question, interview, and take law enforcement action without prior authorization of the school administrator or contacting parents or legal guardians. However, the investigation and questioning of students during school hours or at school events should be limited to situations where the investigation is related to suspected criminal activity related to the operation of or occurring at the school. The investigation and questioning of students for offenses not related to the operation of or occurring at the school should take place at school only when delay might result in danger to any person, destruction of evidence, or flight from the jurisdiction by the person suspected of a crime. The interviewing of students, whether as suspects, victims, or witnesses, should be conducted privately in an office setting. SROs shall take steps to ensure minimal intrusion into the educational experience of students being questioned in the school setting. Custodial interrogation of a minor must be conducted in accordance with § 16.1-247.1 of the Code of Virginia. SROs are responsible for leading the investigation and questioning of students related to suspected violations of criminal law. SROs shall not be included in the investigation and questioning of students about student code of conduct violations that do not involve any criminal activity or risk of harm to self or others. School administrators are responsible for the investigation and questioning of students about violations of the code of conduct.