Veteran Miami Township Officer to Become New SRO at MJHS
Milford School District and Miami Township have named Officer Keith Benhase for the position of School Resource Officer (SRO) at Milford Junior High School. Officer Benhase will assume this role in August.
“Officer Benhase has a deep passion for the SRO position and has attended numerous specialized training courses to prepare himself for this role. He explicitly understands that SROs are responsible for the safety of everyone in the schools as well as the prevention of crime on school grounds,” shared Sergeant Robert Hirsch, Miami Township Police Department.
Officer Benhase has been with the Miami Township police force for 20 years. During this time, he has worked as a supervisor, instructor, and a detective. Over the course of his career, Officer Benhase has earned the Clermont County Award for Bravery and Devotion to Duty in 2017, the Clermont County Medal of Honor in 2006, and Clermont County Certificate of Recognition in 1997.
In his role as an SRO at the junior high, Officer Benhase will not only be responsible for the safety of our staff and students but will mentor students, serve as a resource for teachers and administrators, and conduct presentations on youth-related issues.
“Officer Benhase is a veteran officer who conducts himself in a professional manner day in and day out and his integrity is above reproach,” Sgt. Hirsch said. “As a School Resource Officer, I have no doubt that Officer Benhase will develop and maintain strong relationships and partnerships with school administrators, teachers, parents, and students.”
In addition to Officer Benhase, Milford’s current SRO Kent Arter will continue at Milford High School. The district also has Miami Township officer Skip Rasfeld, who works in the elementary schools and leads the DARE program. Miami Township Police Department has also committed to having every officer who works the day shift visit different schools during the school day for a more visible and frequent presence.
“We are thrilled to add such an experienced and well-respected officer to our team. Officer Benhase will be a great resource at the junior high and help our staff, students, parents feel more secure because of the increased safety of our campus,” said Milford Superintendent Nancy House.
The new SRO will be funded equally by the Milford Exempted Village School District and Miami Township.
