Clinton Police Chief, Brian Guy, is concerned.
"It's the worst I've seen in my 33 years at the department."
Since 2008, Clinton has lost six sworn officers, going from 46 to 40, and has yet to replace any of them.
And the cities budget has a lot to do with that.
Many cities around the country are unable to properly maintain their public safety. That's why Chief Guy has decided to take action.
Wednesday, November 28, 2012, he addressed the City Services Committee to ask permission to pursue a staffing study. This would require bringing in a third party company to see what the bottom line is for the department and help stretch the budget.
"When were constantly taking resources from the criminal investigations, to backfill the patrol division, there are cases that are not being investigated to their fullest potential."
The study would end up costing the city around $20,000 in total but through the committee meeting and the budget talks, the need for the study really comes down to one thing.
"Our biggest concern is the safety of the public and the safety of our officers."
