Tough economy blamed for jail overflow

BENTON -- Scott County has experienced big jail populations this year -- which means it has to pay to house the overflow in other facilities.

During Thursday's meeting, commissioners OK'd a $9,000 bill to Scott City's jail for the months of February through April. In all, about $18,000 of the $45,000 budget for housing prisoners was spent by the end of April.

Concerned with the cost, they spoke with Sheriff's Department officials about the overflow. And, it could be a result of tough economic times.

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