CBS Atlanta 46Douglas County Deputies denied new patrol cars

The Douglas County Sheriff's Office said it desperately needs to replace aging cruisers in its fleet, but county leaders refused to pay for them.

"They're driven hard," said Deputy Chief Stan Copeland.  "They're driven in emergency circumstances.  And our main concern is the officer's safety during a pursuit or during a response to an emergency call."

Copeland said many of the patrol cars have high miles and require constant maintenance.

The Sheriff's Office asked for $1.1 million dollars for 40 new vehicles. The Douglas County Commission denied the request, citing a lack of money.

"It was a budgetary issue," said county spokesman Wes Tallon. "We don't know of any other funding source."

Tallon said the county was able to scrape up enough money left over from last year's budget to purchase 15 new cruisers this year.

"Public safety is a top priority," said Tallon.

However, residents said they were concerned about the aging fleet.

"Yeah, they (deputies) do go fast," said Rosalee Busby. "To catch the crooks, they have to and they have to have a dependable vehicle, too."

Copeland said the department will do its best to maintain the old cruisers and keep the newer patrol cars on the front lines.

"They lose a suspect that gets away and what happens then?" asked Douglas County resident Kirsten Jones.

Copeland said the sheriff will again request money for new vehicles in next year's budget.

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