Jackson Co. Courthouse sees security upgrade - WXOW News 19 La Crosse, WI – News, Weather and Sports |

BLACK RIVER FALLS, Wisconsin (WXOW) - Security is increasing at the Jackson County Courthouse says the Sheriff there.

Sheriff Duane Waldera says deputies will now operate a security scanning area by the courtroom several times a week.  Signs in the building tell people entering the courtroom that they and their belongings are subject to a search.

The reason for the move is to provide a safer environment for courthouse visitors and employees says Waldera.

He related a recent incident where a man brought a fake gun into the courtroom.  Although the man didn't display the realistic looking gun in court, the consequences "may have become devastating" if it had.

Eventually, Sheriff Waldera concluded in his news release, the security area will be manned full time, but declined to say when that may occur.