Jefferson County Sheriff Mike Hale
Jefferson County Commissioners have asked all county departments to cut their budgets by 33 percent. This is due to the possible loss of revenue from the county's occupational tax. Most departments have complied, but notable exception is the Jefferson County Sheriff's Office. Sheriff Mike Hale says he's already cut his budget this year by 19 percent and further cuts would hinder the department's ability to fight crime. Hale sought-and received-a temporary restraining order preventing further cuts, but a battle with commissioners appears inevitable. Sheriff Hale talked about the situation with WBHM's Bradley George.
~ Bradley George, July 8, 2009
