COLDWATER, MI (WTVB) – Branch County Undersheriff Keith Eichler told County Commissioners during their work session Thursday that two part time courthouse officers have been hired.
Mark Miller and Rod Olney will start training next Monday. Both will work no more than 20 hours a week.
Sheriff John Pollack got his hackles up during a May 18t, 2017 work session when courthouse security came up for discussion.
Commissioner Terri Norris complained about security issues during the Jamie Coyle criminal sexual conduct trial in Branch County Circuit Court. One of the security officers had pre-approved time off for a medical procedure. Norris said there were 75 potential jurors in the courthouse and no security. Pollack said the security situation was caused by the county since he was not given the budget or the manpower.
Funds were approved in the 2016 budget for the two part time courthouse positions but the positions were never filled. Because of that, funds were not designated in the 2017 budget.
Eichler also reported Thursday that Deputy Scott Jaye officially return to the department as of Monday. He will take over for David Rumens who is retiring as of July 5, 2017.
