COURTS UNVEIL NEW SIGNS

By Harrison J. Bahe

The Fort McDowell Courts unveiled new signage outlining court rules and providing a clear visual reference of prohibited items within the courthouse.

“We’re really excited to have the new signs up,”

Chief Judge of the Fort McDowell Yavapai Nation Brian Utsey says.

“They give a visual and written reference to people to enforce rules that have been in place going all the way back to 2011. No phones, no food or drink, reminding people that there is appropriate dress for the court room.”

One rule the courts will be enforcing more strictly is the “no cell phones” policy.

“Other judges enforced it but we’re taking a very strong stance about cell phones being off in the court room. Put them away. Don’t have them out.”

Previously, the courts relied on flimsy, photocopied signs posted throughout the building, making an upgrade long overdue. In addition to installing the new signage, the courts also added new metal detectors and acquired metal detector wands to enhance security.

“We’ve also got new metal detectors and new wands so we can properly provide security for people coming in and out of the courthouse. Especially on long days where we have a lot of criminal or jury trials. We can make sure everything functions in a secure environment,” Utsey concludes.

The new devices will be placed to the side of the glass door entrances at the north end of the Public Safety Building and will be utilized whenever court is in session.