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Minn. City To Use Private Security Instead Of Cops

FOLEY, Minn. (AP) -- Due to budget cuts, the city of Foley will use private security patrols instead of fielding its own police department or contracting with a sheriff's office.

The security patrols will carry firearms for self-defense but won't be able to use them to enforce laws.

The patrols can't make arrests, conduct traffic stops, carry out search warrants, pursue suspects or investigate crimes. Instead they'll provide routine patrols and do preventive work, and refer crimes to the sheriff's office.

The city used to contract with the Benton County sheriff's office to have three deputies patrol the city. The arrangement cost about $25,000 per month.

A St. Cloud Times report says by contracting with General Security Services Corp., the city will pay about $16,000 per month.

Foley is 15 miles northeast of St. Cloud.

(© Copyright 2011 The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.)

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