The Florida Department of Corrections continues to have a staffing problem.
Department Chief Julie Jones delivered that message Wednesday to state legislators. Jones said she has hired more than 2,200 new prison guards during the past several months but 1,400 left last year - mostly due to low compensation.
According to the Tampa Bay Times, the state DOC has been on the defensive as budget reports showed funds for payroll have been shifted to pay for prison repairs after years of inadequate funding.
Jones, who was appointed in January, told a state House committee that pay increases are needed in order to attract and retain staff.