Privatizing Of Courthouse Security Considered

Hernando Today

BROOKSVILLE - The sheriff's office is considering the partial privatization of security at the Hernando County courthouse and government center.

Chief Deputy Michael Hensley confirmed Wednesday that he and Sheriff Richard Nugent are in "very, very preliminary discussions" with security firm Wackenhut.

It's one of several cost-cutting measures the sheriff's office is considering in anticipation of a challenging budget season, according to Hensley.

"People have to be creative in these times," he said.

Hensley emphasized that the idea is only in a research stage at this point and may not pan out as expected.

But if the sheriff's office does go forward with privatization, it would largely be to fill the security positions at the main lobby entrance. This would mean between five and nine positions. There is also talk about using private security for transporting inmates from the county jail to the courthouse.

Sworn personnel would still serve as bailiffs for judges and maintain a presence in the atrium and some locations in the courthouse. The deputies bumped from the first-floor security stations could be reassigned to patrol or investigative positions left open by attrition. Collectively, there could be as few as six sworn deputies in the courthouse.

Simply moving a deputy from the courthouse to the road is not feasible because it defeats the purpose of saving money, Hensley said.

The chief deputy did not rule out layoffs, but said it is his "hope, desire and intent not to lay them off."

It's also unclear who would foot the bill for private security. Hensley said some county officials are aware of their discussions and haven't voiced any opposition so far.

The most likely contractual arrangements are either the sheriff's office assuming the bill or an even split between the sheriff's office and the county.

Hensley said the idea came about when he and the sheriff attended a conference hosted by the Florida Sheriff's Association. Wackenhut was one of the vendors attending.

In these tight times for public government, "a lot of private companies are seeing the opportunities," Hensley said.