Grand Canyon Times

A school safety officer from the Tucson Police Department was recognized for his brave actions during an incident involving an armed intruder at Legacy Charter School. Officer William Bonanno confronted and arrested the individual, preventing potential harm to students and staff. State schools chief Tom Horne awarded Bonanno a certificate of commendation for his efforts.

Horne highlighted the significance of Bonanno's actions, stating, “Officer Bonanno prevented the nightmare I have often talked about. 20 students and additional adults would have lost their lives, and the student’s parents would have had their lives ruined by uncontrollable grief.” He emphasized the importance of having police in schools, suggesting that those opposing this presence reconsider their stance.

Bonanno was assigned to Legacy Charter School following the release of $48 million in additional school safety funds by Superintendent Horne. The funding allowed schools like Legacy Charter to hire School Safety Officers to ensure security on campus.

School Safety Officers are law enforcement personnel who cover schools lacking dedicated School Resource Officers. This initiative is part of a public-private partnership with Off Duty Management, which facilitates officer placement across various jurisdictions in Arizona.

Brian Manley, President of Off Duty Management, expressed gratitude for Bonanno's swift response: “The Off Duty Management Team is grateful that Officer Bonanno’s immediate action protected the lives and wellbeing of the children, school staff, and others present at the school that day.” Manley credited Tucson Police Department leadership and educational authorities for establishing this program.