In a recent government workshop, Sheriff Neller presented a concerning report on the state of the sheriff's office, highlighting a significant shortage of personnel and resources. Currently, the department is operating with only 63 full-time employees (FTEs), a reduction attributed to recent budget cuts and ongoing resignations. Out of these, seven employees are unavailable due to various reasons, including injuries and administrative leave related to an officer-involved shooting.

Sheriff Neller emphasized the strain this shortage places on operations, particularly in the detention facility, where only 2.5 FTEs are assigned to manage the jail. This staffing level is insufficient to meet the required standards for the number of inmates, leading to increased reliance on overtime and additional personnel to maintain safety and security.

The sheriff also pointed out the challenges posed by the Victim Rights Act (VRA), which mandates certain felony arrests and sentencing, further complicating the situation. He noted that the city of Cortez is a significant contributor to the jail population, primarily due to state charge arrests related to protection orders. These arrests often stem from individuals struggling with substance abuse, raising concerns about the effectiveness of current judicial practices.

Sheriff Neller called for collaborative efforts among local officials and judges to address these issues, particularly regarding the handling of individuals with addiction problems. He expressed urgency in finding solutions, as the department faces a critical lack of applicants for detention deputy positions, which could exacerbate the ongoing crisis in the sheriff's office.