Commissioners back sheriff's request for deputies to increase courthouse security
Summary
Sheriff Brady Thomas asked the commissioners to support three additional deputy positions so two deputies can be dedicated to the third-floor courtrooms; the commissioners voted to back the request and directed the sheriff to seek funding from the county council. The sheriff estimated an additional recurring cost of about $245,000 per year.
Sheriff Brady Thomas told the DeKalb County Commissioners he needs three additional deputy positions so the courthouse can consistently station two deputies on the third floor to preserve courtroom safety while covering transports and other duties. Thomas said current staffing is spread thin and that dedicating personnel without increasing total staffing would leave other critical functions uncovered.
"I'm asking the commissioners to determine if this is the best course of action and recommend the necessary funding to the county council," Sheriff Brady Thomas said. Judges who spoke during the meeting supported the request, describing courtroom incidents and rising behavioral and mental-health-related challenges that increase safety concerns. Commissioners discussed scheduling, transport impacts, and the possibility of some virtual hearings; after deliberation they voted to back the sheriff's request and instructed him to take the recommendation to the county council for funding approval. The board recorded the motion as carried with two votes in favor and one abstention.
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