Pott. County Sheriff: We Cannot Keep Up, And We Need A Little Help

A growing population mixed with fewer resources for deputies is creating a issue in Pottawatomie County, according to Sheriff Mike Booth.

Friday, September 13th 2013, 10:04 pm

By: News 9


A growing population mixed with fewer resources for deputies is creating a issue in Pottawatomie County, according to Sheriff Mike Booth.

The new county budget is causing stress and forcing Booth to make tough decisions, while facing an increase of violent crime. Some county cruisers outside the sheriff's office are parked until further notice with flat tires and other issues.

"It was getting to a dangerous point to drive some of these vehicles, and we had to park them," Booth said. "We had no choice."

The cars are not the only problem facing the sheriff. He's down one full-time deputy, and in Pottawatomie County, that's a big deal.

"We got $44,000 less than what we asked for, and that would have provided that additional deputy," said Booth.

Booth says each county agency deserves what it got in the new budget … But, practically every agency got what it wanted, except the sheriff's office.

"It's pretty rare that a sheriff's office actually gets what [it] asks for," Booth said.

The deputies' dedication and the team work in Pottawatomie County are keeping the people safe for now, according to Booth.

"We cannot keep up, and we need a little help," Booth said. "Every sheriff needs a little help."

County officials are currently working to secure grants. Currently, the sheriff must decide on adding additional resources or paying raises for current deputies, who haven't received extra pay in two years.

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