County Attorney addresses crime surge and staffing shortages in Silver Bow County

A pressing staffing crisis and a surge in crime rates dominated discussions at the June 2, 2025, Government Study Commission meeting in Butte-Silver Bow, Montana. County Attorney officials highlighted alarming statistics, revealing that the county faces approximately 400 felony cases and over 2,000 misdemeanors annually, despite a population hovering around 30,000 to 40,000 residents.

The county's unique geographical position at the intersection of two major highways—Interstate 90 and Interstate 15—has turned it into a significant corridor for drug and human trafficking, exacerbating crime rates. The County Attorney noted that the influx of parolees and probationers seeking rehabilitation in the area further contributes to the challenges faced by law enforcement.

In a stark admission, the County Attorney revealed a critical staffing shortage, stating that despite offering competitive salaries starting at $93,000 for new attorneys, there have been zero applicants for an open position over the past three weeks. This shortage is compounded by the fact that the office operates with only seven prosecutors, significantly fewer than neighboring counties like Kalispell, which has 14.

To address these issues, the County Attorney proposed a restructuring of the legal framework, suggesting the establishment of a separate city attorney's office to alleviate the burden on the county attorney's office. This change could help manage the increasing complexity of cases, including a rise in serious offenses such as fentanyl-related crimes and domestic violence linked to drug use.

The meeting underscored the urgent need for strategic changes to improve public safety and support the overwhelmed legal staff in Butte-Silver Bow. As discussions continue, the community awaits further developments on how local government plans to tackle these pressing challenges.