Addison Trail welcomes new School Resource Officer

A new School Resource Officer has joined the team at Addison Trail – but he's a familiar face to the community.

Addison Police Department Detective Eric Brant took on that role starting Oct. 16, and he succeeds Cristobol (Cris) Soto, who filled that position since May 2014. Brant might be new to Addison Trail, but he has been with the Addison Police Department for more than 12 years. Brant joined the police force after working in construction for 13 years. He said he always wanted to be a police officer and is thrilled to be pursuing that career.

Brant also served as a School Resource Officer at Indian Trail Junior High School in Addison School District 4 for five years and said he’s looking forward to assuming that role again and having a positive impact on Addison Trail.

“My goal is to build on the strong relationship and partnerships that are already in place between the school, the students and the police department,” Brant said. “I want the staff and students to view me as a resource and feel comfortable coming to me with questions and concerns.”

He added he will work to gain students’ trust, so they see him as more than “a badge.” Although Brant’s job is to enforce the law and school policies, he knows the position encompasses so much more.

“I want to be a positive light and influence for people to help them during good times and times of need,” he said.

Addison Trail Principal Michael Bolden said the school is thrilled to welcome Brant, and he knows Brant will continue the excellent work Soto and previous School Resource Officers have established.

“Our No. 1 priority is the safety and security of our students and staff, and the School Resource Officer position is one more way for us to ensure the well-being of everyone in our building,” Bolden said. “We look forward to working with Detective Brant and continuing a tremendous partnership with the Addison Police Department.”

To contact Brant, e-mail ebrant@dupage88.net.