Sheriff Proposes Cost-Saving Law Enforcement Services to Marble Hill, Rejected by City Board

Bollinger Co., Mo. (KFMO) - On Monday, August 19, 2024, Bollinger County Sheriff Casey A. Graham presented a proposal to the Marble Hill Board of Aldermen for contracted law enforcement services following recent resignations from the Marble Hill Police Department. The plan aimed to enhance law enforcement coverage for Marble Hill while potentially saving the city approximately $100,000 within the first year. The proposal included providing Sheriff's Office personnel such as a full-time detective, court bailiff, command staff, and additional deputies.

However, the proposal was not a formal contract but an invitation to open negotiations between the City of Marble Hill and Bollinger County officials. Despite these efforts, the City Board of Aldermen rejected the proposal on August 22, 2024, opting instead to hire an Interim Chief of Police. The Interim Chief, however, would only be available for limited hours due to another full-time job, which led to the Bollinger County Sheriff's Office stepping in to provide 24-hour coverage.

Since that time, Sheriff’s Deputies have been handling numerous calls for service in Marble Hill, leading to off-duty deputies being called in and overtime costs accumulating for the Sheriff's Office. Incidents covered by the Sheriff's Office included a potential burglary and domestic dispute on Sunday, August 25, 2024 and a possible death on Tuesday, August 27, 2024, where city law enforcement was unavailable to respond.

Sheriff Graham expressed gratitude to the residents for their patience as the Sheriff’s Office adjusts to the increased demand for services and encouraged the City Board to engage in open communication. He emphasized the need for transparency regarding taxpayer funds, stating that the residents of Bollinger County deserve clarity on how their money is being spent.

For law enforcement needs, residents are urged to contact the Bollinger County Sheriff's Office at 573-238-2633. For city matters, Marble Hill City Hall can be reached at 573-238-3622.