Saline County dog patrol

Investigator Aaron Parsons pictured with police service dog, Antrax, of the Prosecuting Attorney's office Canine Unit.

Since 2007, Saline County Prosecuting Attorney Ken Casady has assigned his office investigator the duty of providing an extra patrol presence at Saline County school bus stops and routes. “Project Crossing Guard” was formed in honor of the late Isaac Brian, after whom “Isaac’s Law” was named.

“Our office investigator, Aaron Parsons, stays in contact with the transportation folks from county school districts and provides extra patrol attention to problem spots” Casady said. Last year, Parsons issued 16 citations for violation of A.C.A. 27-511-1004, passing a stopped school bus. Parsons also issued 7 warnings and conducted 29 investigations which were prosecuted by Casady's office. Parsons stated “many of the county’s school buses are equipped with camera technology that made it easier to make cases against the offenders.”

“This has been a very successful project. My office and Saline County law enforcement have received special recognition from school transportation officials for our efforts. We try to bring attention to this project every year when school goes back into session to provide an extra reminder to slow down and be cautious around school buses” Casady said.

The law states that any person convicted of the misdemeanor offense of passing a stopped school bus can be fined up to $1,000, jailed for up to 90 days and have his license suspended for up to one year, Casady said.