Sacramento Sheriff Warns of Public Safety Risks from Proposed $14M Budget Cuts

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Sacramento County Sheriff Jim Cooper is calling on county officials to reconsider proposed budget cuts of around $14 million, which he says could significantly impact public safety and law enforcement services. Cooper warns that the cuts would affect key positions like patrol deputies and investigators, reducing service levels and straining the department's ability to respond to calls and investigate crimes.

Why it matters

As the county grapples with budget decisions, the sheriff's warning highlights the potential public safety implications of reduced funding for law enforcement. The proposed cuts come at a time when many communities are focused on public safety and crime prevention efforts.

The details

According to Cooper, the county is considering a 2.7% across-the-board budget reduction, which the sheriff's office estimates would amount to around $14 million in cuts to its budget. Cooper says these reductions would affect key positions within the department, including deputies assigned to patrol duties and investigators. The sheriff warns that losing these positions could reduce service levels and strain the department's ability to respond to calls for service and investigate crimes throughout the county.

• The Sacramento County Board of Supervisors is currently considering the budget cuts.

What they’re saying

What’s next

County officials are expected to continue discussions on the budget in the coming weeks, and the sheriff is calling on residents to contact their respective members of the Board of Supervisors to provide input on the budget decisions.