May 24th, 2024 by WCBC Radio

A critical manpower shortage is being called out by the Fraternal Order of Police Lodge 144.  Currently, just two Sheriff’s Department deputies work per shift to cover all of Allegany County.  In a letter released to the media, the FOP is making a request for the public’s support in the allocation of 12 additional sworn deputies for the patrol division. The letter states that the FOP has made numerous attempts to meet with county officials on staffing issues within the Sheriff’s department. Christopher Hill, President of the FOP and a County Sheriff’s Deputy, tells WCBC that the request has less to do with money and more to do with providing service at a responsible level…

Hill also noted that the amount and severity of crimes perpetrated has changed over time…