Cost of Protecting Arizona Sheriff Joe Arpaio Increases

Over $120,000 spent from June 2012 to June 2013

PHOENIX—It's become increasingly expensive to protect America's most notorious lawman.

The taxpayer-funded security detail for Maricopa County (Ariz.) Sheriff Joe Arpaio has been spending more time guarding him during off hours, in addition to providing protection to Arpaio through the workday and at public appearances in the Phoenix area.

The unit's overtime costs have increased dramatically in the last year, from about 120 overtime hours in June 2012 to more than 400 overtime hours this June. In May, the team accrued more than 600 overtime hours.

(H/T Charles WT)