LUDLOW, MA (WGGB/WSHM) -- Hampden County Sheriff Nick Cocchi announced his office is rolling back law enforcement and public safety programs, including the elimination of 50 positions.

The sheriff’s office said the cuts are in response to broader fiscal challenges that date back to the 1990s and it’s similar to issues faced by sheriff’s offices across Massachusetts. Officials said this “initial phase” will scale back or restructure programs that aren’t funded or reimbursed by other municipalities or organizations.

The changes will eliminate 50 positions over a variety of public safety programs throughout the county, targeting $3.6 to $4 million in savings. Staff were notified Tuesday and some changes are immediate, while others will happen over the coming months.

Cocchi added he does not believe this is the right move for public safety in Massachusetts, but the office has to face the reality of the budget.

Western Mass News will have more on this story starting at 4 p.m. on ABC40.

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