Ohio sheriff suggests arming ex-cop teachers

CINCINNATI (AP) — A southwest Ohio sheriff is proposing to turn former police officers into teachers as a solution for improving school safety.

Butler County Sheriff Richard Jones said Thursday he had sworn in a retired Mason, Ohio, city police officer as a special deputy. The man was recently certified as a substitute teacher.

Jones calls the arrangement a "two for one," meaning special deputies can carry guns, and the retired officers would already have law enforcement training and experience.

It's unlikely enough police-turned-teachers could staff every school but Jones says knowing a school could have an armed substitute teacher on any given day would deter criminals.

Jones' proposal would be subject to school boards' approval.

Jones has gotten national attention previously for a high-profile campaign against illegal immigration.