Low county revenue led to budget cuts which cost 12 peace officers their jobs Wednesday.
Marion County Sheriff Tim Bailey informed one dozen of his deputies that they would lose their jobs, effective Jan. 1, 10TV’s Justin Moss reported.
Bailey warned the public that would mean longer response times for many calls. Some residents said that the staffing cuts had them concerned.
"This area is starting to get bad. This side of town, there's times at night you can here gunshots. So, I mean, it's not a good idea," Devin Mosier said.
The sheriff said the cuts were coming at the same time crime was on the rise in Marion County. The reduction to 20 deputies would put the county on par with 1975 staffing levels.
"I live in the county, and we definitely would like to have them out there. And it's just devastating. And it's just before Christmas. Why would they do that?" Barb Breece asked.
The sheriff said that if the county finds more money somewhere, deputies might be recalled. On the other hand, Bailey said if things get worse, more layoffs could follow.
Plans were being discussed to handle minor calls to be by email, phone or even Facebook.
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Marion County Sheriff's Office Lays Off 12 Deputies
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