After the state disbanded its agricultural police force in June due to budget cuts, the vast majority of farm crime cases fell on the shoulders of local sheriff departments.

Thanks to the action of the Coffee County Commission Monday, Sheriff Dave Sutton’s department will be able to handle this load more effectively.

The Commission passed Sutton’s request to hire a part-time agricultural officer, allowing Frank Chirico to focus primarily on farm crimes – most of which are animal cruelty and neglect cases, Sutton said.

“I’m asking to create a part-time position to handle the cattle and horse issues,” the sheriff said, noting the position is for 38 hours or less per week.

Chirico, who worked for the Alabama Department of Agriculture and Industries for more than 20 years, was originally hired to provide courtroom security and aid in the animal and farm crimes investigations. Sutton said Chirico has not been able to keep up with the case load and is stepping down from the courtroom security position in hopes of doing so.

The Sheriff Department has hired Jim Garrison for courtroom security. Since Garrison is retired, he can only earn so much money from a new job, saving the department about $14,000, Sutton said.

“You could apply that money to fund this part-time position,” the sheriff told commissioners.

The commissioners approved the move unanimously.

“As a horse owner, I know we have serious issues,” said District 3 Commissioner Robert Stephens. “I won’t say it’s (a) permanent (position).”

Alabama’s agriculture commissioner John McMillan said in August he wants to bring back the state agriculture police department if funding permits.

The issue of farm crimes, especially animal cruelty, has presented the Coffee County Sheriff Office with some issues, including where to keep confiscated horses. At one time, the idea of purchasing land to store the horses was proposed.

District 1 Commissioner Dean Smith asked Sutton Monday what is currently happening to horses and cattle that are being confiscated due to neglect. Sutton said currently several volunteers are holding the animals until permanent homes are found for them.

Story from The Dothan Eagle; Written by Jeremy Wise

SOURCE: http://www2.dothaneagle.com/news/2011/nov/15/coffee-county-sheriff-creates-part-time-ag-officer-ar-2709867/