Attorney: Houston County Court Needs More Security

WINONA (AP) -- The president of the Houston County Bar Association is urging the county to improve security in courtrooms.

In a letter to the court, President Sam Jandt threatened to boycott some court hearings unless security improves.

He says security guards weren't present at two recent hearings where they were needed. His letter quotes several state statutes that require bailiffs at all traffic and criminal hearings and for bailiffs to be present at the court's request in other cases.

Court Administrator Darlene Larson says that like most counties, Houston County is under financial strain.

Sheriff Doug Ely says he plans to investigate how much it would cost to have a full-time security officer at the courthouse.