SDPD investigates financial discrepancies in unit that oversees school safety program – NBC 7 San Diego

San Diego police are investigating some of them after a recent financial audit caused a stir.

A spokesperson for the department confirms an internal investigation is underway into accounting discrepancies within the youth management unit. The unit is responsible for nearly 80 school safety programs throughout the county. Officers teach students to be outside-the-box thinkers and host events like “Shop With a Cop.”

However, parents and staff who spoke widely about the programs, which have positively impacted fifth and sixth graders, also said they were shocked and disappointed to learn of the investigation.

Sixth grader Leanni Bader, a former student at Morning Creek Elementary School in Saber Springs, loved her time with the School Safety Patrol (SSP). Working with San Diego’s best inspired her, she said.

“We paid attention to the everyday cars trying to pass stop signs,” Leanni said. “We also kept an eye on the people who don’t like to listen and just cross over when they want.”

Alex Vari said it was invaluable to his children.

“She was successful,” Vari said. “It was an amazing and positive experience for her.”

News of an internal audit into monetary and accounting discrepancies is concerning.

“It would be devastating for the children to miss the opportunity to do this,” Vari said.

A department spokesman did not provide any information about who was involved in the internal audit or how much money was involved. According to employees, most of the unit’s funding comes from donations and fundraisers.

Leanni and her mother instead focus on the positive impact and confidence she has gained.

“Like: talking to people, helping people, and I really just wanted to help make the world a better place,” Leanni said.

None of the schools offering an SSP program were identified or linked to the SDPD investigation.