LIBERTY COUNTY, TX (KTRK) -- They're sworn to serve and protect our communities.
But several deputies at the Liberty County Sheriff's Office are making so little much money, they receive food stamps.
Starting pay is $36,800/year.
"It's embarrassing. It's the only way I can describe it," said one deputy who didn't want to be identified because he often works undercover. "After taxes, my bring-home is around $24,000."
Six deputies have admitted to receiving food stamps, and three others are currently applying for them.
"We're not looking to make huge amounts of money to where we're taking big lavish vacations and buying expensive cars," the undercover deputy explained. "We just want to be able to pay our bills without being so stressed out and wondering how we're going to make it to our next paycheck."
Liberty County Commissioners say they would like to give raises to deputies, but the county doesn't have much money. They are currently discussing their latest budget, which comes out on July 31st.
"The sheriff's office is a priority," said County Judge, Craig McNair, "but we also have to figure out where the bank account starts and stops."
Nearby Harris County deputies are paid $42,000/year for entry level positions.