PARAGOULD -- After months of requesting funds to purchase a security system for the Greene County Courthouse, officials have finally been able to obtain such a system without using taxpayer's funds.

With a little less than $25,000 in Homeland Security Grant money secured, the second floor of the courthouse now has a digital security system keeping an eye on everything.

District Judge Daniel Stidham explained that, through the use of small cameras in the ceiling -- which are barely noticeable -- hallways around the courtrooms and the district court clerk's office, are now being monitored around the clock.

Stidham said that, through digital recording, activities are recorded for two weeks before the device begins recording over itself.

The television set and digital recording devices being used with this new system are stored in the district court clerk's office.

District Clerk Robin Moyer explained that the system's installation process took about a week and that it is now up and ready to go.

Moyer said that, when all of the glitches are worked out, the new system should be an asset.

"It will be a good thing when it's up and running," she said.

Stidham and Moyer have both encountered incidents on the second floor of the building, including fights and general disputes.

"This new system will be a real asset to us if there is an incident," Stidham said.

In addition to the cameras and recording devices, the new system offers a panic button at the judge's bench.

Stidham explained that, when there is a violent disturbance in the courtroom, the button may be pressed, and Paragould Police officers will be dispatched to the courtroom.

Additionally, security cards will issued at a later date.

Moyer explained that these are proximity cards for those who apply for the card and are approved.

She said that the cards are for personnel who enter the building through means other than the front door, including judges, lawyers, law-enforcement officials and court employees.

Stidham's passion for a new security system stems from several bomb threats which were called into the courthouse about two years ago.

Since that time, Stidham has requested from county officials that a security system be installed.

However he was denied on many occasions.

"I cannot express my gratitude to (Greene) County Judge Willie Gene Williams in helping us get this done," Stidham said.

He explained that Williams guided him through the grant process.

The judge stressed that wanting to get the security equipment was not just about protecting court personnel.

"It's for the public," he said. "In any kind of situation, it is our duty and obligation to protect the people's right to the justice system. I am excited we have got this new security system. These past two years have been a long road."