LONDON, Ky. — The Kentucky State Police Department is offering extra security measures for schools in the area as they resume classes and other activities amid the ongoing search for Joseph Couch.

Kentucky State Police trooper Scottie Pennington says among those heading back to in-person classes is Rockcastle County Schools. 

“They chose to go to school. So we’re providing some security for them, like when the bus has traveled a little small road close to the scene, we’ll escort them, you know, to school from school,” he said.

They will also provide specific pickup and drop-off locations that are being disclosed to families privately. 

He says this situation has caused delays in students’ learning.

“If they’re at home, is somebody really actually watching the kids at home or do the parents have to work?” Pennington said. “In my opinion, kids are safe at school, but that’s up to each parent if they want their kid to go to school or not. The parent has to make the ultimate decision for the safety of their child.”

They will also have to make their own decisions about fall sporting events such as football. Pennington says as a coach in his community, he knows the importance of these activities in a child’s life.

“I want my kids that I’ve coached over the years, I want them to play on Friday night. I want to be in the stands watching them,” he explained. “And so do the parents and so do the people cheering them on. Win or lose, we still want to chill out and cheer on our kids.”

Pennington says this has disrupted many school systems and law enforcement understands the concerns of parents and community members.

“Our kids go to the schools, our nieces and nephews, you know. Some police officer, their kids go to that school that we know. It might not be my kid, but I know kids that go to those schools,” Pennington said.

Pennington says they’ll continue to offer help to communities in the area until the search is resolved.