Successful Crime Task Force Facing Budget Axe

YUBA COUNTY (CBS13) – One of the most successful crime-fighting units in the state could be cut due to state budget cuts that take effect at the beginning of next year.

The Yuba-Sutter Drug and Gang Task Force, also known as NET-5, is at risk of vanishing when California budget cuts for drug enforcement efforts takes effect on January 1. At least 50 task forces across the state will be affected by the cuts.

NET-5 has delivered some of the biggest drug busts in the region, including the arrest of Olivehurst resident George Snow, who was accused of manufacturing meth for 25 years.

Local law enforcement agencies, including Yuba County District Attorney Pat McGrath, are hunting for ways to make up for the $200,000 shortfall.

"The task force is important," said McGrath. "What we'll do is prioritize; we make sure that it happens."

McGrath said he may ask local officials in Yuba-Sutter to kick in the money that keeps the unit operating.