CAIRO, Ill. (AP) - Alexander County in deep southern Illinois is among the state's most struggling areas, and the sheriff's dwindling stable of patrol cars is just more proof.
Sheriff David Barkett released a statement saying five of his patrol cars were turned over Tuesday to First National Bank in Cairo because of nonpayment.
Barkett says that came four days after County Chairman Mike Caldwell got a letter from the bank and talked with bank officials.
It isn't immediately clear how many cars the sheriff's department still has.
Barkett's department recently laid off 11 employees, or three-quarters of its work force, because of budget restraints.
Barkett hasn't returned messages left at his office Wednesday seeking comment.
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