Arrest at Joseph Sears School pauses school day

The Joseph Sears School’s everyday activities were disrupted Friday afternoon as school officials and Kenilworth police responded to a man “without a clear purpose for being on campus,” according to a statement from the school.

In a press release, Kenilworth police say that a Sears School staff member called police at approximately 1:15 p.m. after seeing a man at the school who was issued a “no trespass warning” on July 11.

Police officers arrested the man “without incident” for allegedly violating an order of protection he was served on July 18. The protection order reportedly lists the school as a protected address.

According to the Sears Communication Coordinator Chris Mannara, the man remained near the school’s entry vestibule and did not enter the school building throughout the incident.

Mannara said in an email to The Record that while the man was on campus Sears students were kept in their classrooms and hallway movement was restricted as part of the Secure and Teach procedure.

“At no time were students or staff at risk,” he said.

“The procedure worked as intended, ensuring that students remained safe and uninterrupted in their learning,” Mannara added. “… Safety is always our top priority, and Friday’s response reflects that commitment.”

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