Prosecutor & Public Defender fight for tax dollars

From the News-Press.com:  State Attorney & Public Defender fight for budget money.

            "According to the prosecutors' association, the 20th Judicial Circuit, which includes Lee, Collier, Charlotte, Glades and Hendry counties, is funded at 15.7 percent, or $2.9 million, below where it should be. In comparison, Miami-Dade County, which comprises the 11th Circuit, is 21 percent, or $7.8 million, above what it should be getting, according to the association's numbers. 

            And Public Defender Kathy Smith is in the same situation as Russell.  According to the Florida Public Defenders Association, her office would get the largest boost statewide under the House proposal - about $5 million, which Smith said would be 40 to 50 new positions plus salary adjustments.  The association puts the 20th Circuit last in funding per case at $184.98, while the state average is $236.30 per case."

            I know from personal observations that our court system needs more attorneys to make the system work.  I hope Mr. Russell and Mrs. Smith help our county by getting our share of the money from the budget.