Principal Natalie James of Ridgeview Middle School attempted to block police from entering the school during a bomb threat investigation, which has raised concerns due to her prior contentious interactions with law enforcement. Bodycam footage reveals her arguing with officers, insisting they wait for the school's security officer. Police union president Brian Steel criticized her behavior as indicative of 'implicit bias' against police, noting a pattern of obstruction. Parents have expressed outrage at her uncooperative demeanor, with some labeling her authoritarian over the school's administration.
Brian Steel, President of the Capital City Fraternal Order of Police Lodge #9, stated that Principal Natalie James has 'implicit bias and disdain for law enforcement,' reflecting her longstanding history of interfering with police business.
James Diorio, a parent at Ridgeview, criticized the principal's behavior, calling it 'shameful' and asserting that she behaves like a 'czar' who makes her own rules without consideration for others.
Officer Keith Conner described Principal James as 'absolutely the most uncooperative person that I've ever dealt with in a school system,' emphasizing her resistance during their interaction regarding a bomb threat.
The incident highlights a pattern of hostility between Principal James and Columbus police officers, as police union president Brian Steel mentioned dealing with 'upwards of a dozen' similar incidents over the years.
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