Monroe County Legislature votes to add new road patrol deputies

ROCHESTER, N.Y. — The Monroe County Sheriff’s Office is getting a boost in funding. The county legislature voted on Tuesday to add 41 new road patrol deputies and establish a Regional Investigative Operations Center.

The $7.3 million boost in funding passed by 24 to 4 votes. The legislature also passed funding for county fire and EMS agencies.

Monore County proposed the boost in funding on May 8 to help tackle crime. The new center will help to address crime that crosses between towns and city jurisdictions, including car thefts. The facility will incorporate state-of-the-art technology.

Here is a statement from Monroe County Executive Adam Bello about the funding boost:

“Modern challenges like smash and grabs, catalytic converter and car thefts, and drug and gun violence are requiring us to be more innovative in our approach to addressing these crimes, keeping residents safe and holding people accountable. This historic investment will reshape the way the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office will operate for years to come by giving our law enforcement officers the tools they need and the ability to adjust to the challenges they face. I’m grateful to Sheriff Baxter for his partnership developing this plan and to the County Legislature for their overwhelming support of the proposal.”

Here is a statement from Sheriff Todd Baxter:

“Government working collaboratively to solve problems is exactly what our community deserves. I thank County Executive Bello and the County Legislature for their recognition of this, asking questions and allowing us to share input while developing this plan to improve public safety. This funding will allow our deputies to provide the level of service our community expects.”