Who defines crime?
ST. PETERSBURG — The boy’s behavior was inappropriate. Of that, there was no question. But the principal of Southside Fundamental Middle School considered the act of a boy who exposed himself in class bad manners, not necessarily a crime. The school’s resource officer, however, took exception. She suggested that a criminal charge be filed against Principal Tom Jones for obstruction of justice. The conflict was resolved recently when the state attorney decided not to arrest the principal, and the officer was transferred out of the school. But it highlights the philosophical differences between police and school administrators. Now, a committee of lawyers, principals, educators and law enforcement officers are writing a “memorandum of understanding,” spelling out what to do when disagreements arise. “You have two professions that have to come to terms with each one’s responsibility,” said Sgt. Greg Tita of the Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office. There are numerous areas that can cause mis
