Sheriffs: Public wants police in schools, protecting statues, and arresting criminals

The backlash against the “defund” movement targeting police is growing as more people express their support for fully funding law enforcement and back their presence in high-crime neighborhoods, in schools, and even around historic landmarks.

In a new survey shared with Secrets, the National Sheriffs’ Association found 14% of adults were supportive of the defund effort, which in some campaigns includes dismantling police and sheriff departments.

The survey, done with the public research firm TechnoMetrica, found that 42% want more local, county, and state funding for law enforcement and first responders, while 34% want to maintain current spending.