By GARY HUFFENBERGER

December 12th, 2007

Wilmington News Journal

The Wilmington Parks & Recreation Department in January will start criminal background checks for coaches and other volunteers who work with youth.

The individuals will be screened using a service provided by Recreational Sports Management (RSM) when they sign up to be involved in Parks & Recreation youth programs.

The RSM service has databases that enable it to conduct a “very extensive” criminal background check, said Scott Parrish, director of the Wilmington Parks & Recreation Department. The cost will be $20 per person which will be paid by the department, not the coach or volunteer.

Drug testing will not be part of the screening process.

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