Indiana program to provide schools with free metal detectors

INDIANAPOLIS (AP) — A new state program will equip Indiana schools with free handheld metal detectors next month, when most of the state's school districts start the new academic year.

Gov. Eric Holcomb's office announced Monday that all traditional public, charter and accredited non-public schools that want the devices for detecting weapons will be eligible for one device for every 250 students enrolled. The Indiana State Police and Department of Administration will coordinate the program and place the first order this month.

The new program comes after a student was accused of opening fire in a Noblesville West Middle School classroom May 25, injuring one student and one teacher. The school doesn't have metal detectors.