The Grant County prosecutor's office is sounding the alarm over a staggering increase in felony cases, with filings projected to soar by 60% over the past decade, while staffing levels remain stagnant. During the Budget Hearing Night on August 28, 2024, the prosecutor highlighted the pressing need for additional deputy prosecutors to manage the growing caseload, which is expected to reach 1,558 cases this year.

Currently, the office operates with just seven full-time prosecutors, leading to an overwhelming average of 222 cases per prosecutor. This marks an 80% increase in workload compared to ten years ago, raising concerns about the ability to effectively handle serious felony cases, including violent crimes and operating while intoxicated (OWI) offenses.

The prosecutor emphasized the critical need for experienced legal staff, noting that turnover in the public defender's office has compounded the issue, with three seasoned defenders leaving this year alone. The lack of experienced attorneys is hindering the progress of cases, as new hires often lack the necessary courtroom experience.

In a bid to address these challenges, the prosecutor is requesting funding for two new positions, each with a proposed salary of $105,000, to attract qualified candidates from neighboring counties that offer competitive pay. The request also includes a 5% raise for existing staff to keep pace with inflation.

The prosecutor's office is advocating for these changes not just to alleviate the current burden but to ensure that justice is served effectively in Grant County. As the meeting concluded, the urgency of the situation was clear: without immediate action, the legal system risks becoming overwhelmed, jeopardizing the quality of legal representation for both defendants and victims alike.