Sheriff reports May uptick in some crimes, high courthouse screenings and jail activity

Sheriff Bill Elliott briefed commissioners on May public safety metrics and jail activity on June 25. He reported that person‑crimes increased 11% year‑over‑year (43 reports vs. 38), community crime problem reports rose 17% and certain violent or sensitive case types increased; property crimes were down.

Jail statistics (including municipal and state police bookings at the county jail) showed 85 total bookings in May versus 87 the prior May. DUI bookings rose notably (23, up about 47%). Arrests handled solely by the sheriff’s office were down overall for the month; use‑of‑force incidents at the jail decreased 66% year‑over‑year and there were no suicide attempts reported in May, though the jail recorded two suicide watches.

Elliott said courthouse security screened 3,768 entrants in May, the highest monthly count since the building opened; security staff logged 102 knives confiscated, three pepper sprays and one firearm turned away at screening. He noted a rise in calls for service expected over the summer and said the department is managing staff coverage for courthouse screening with overtime while the assigned deputy is on vacation.

No policy changes were approved; the briefing provided statistical context and staffing updates for commissioners.