MARTINEZ, Calif. (KCBS) -- A temporary solution has allowed the Contra Costa District Attorney to continue prosecuting misdemeanor crimes. But, some officials think the county could take more from other departments to fund public safety.
District Attorney Bob Kochly worked out a funding plan that allows misdemeanors to be prosecuted for at least the next four months.
KCBS’ Dave Padilla Reports
Jim Bickert of the Contra Costa Deputy Sheriff’s Association maintains that the county has its priorities wrong.
”The priority in this county has been public health care, and it’s been that way for years, which is why the sheriff’s office and the district attorney’s office are in the position that they’re in,” said Bickert.
Kochly believes his office can find a permanent funding solution, which is in danger of losing 18 prosecutors by years’end.
”I refuse to accept that there’s no more money anywhere,” said Kochly. “I’m hopeful that there can be funds identified.”
The county Health Services Department eliminated 5,500 undocumented immigrant adults from non-emergency medical care, saving the county $6 million. The department still faces an $8 million deficit.
(MGO)
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