Delaware County Voters OK Sales Tax Increase To Pay Off Sex Settlement

Delaware County voters said yes Tuesday to a sales tax increase to settle a $13 million lawsuit against the sheriff's department.

The lawsuit was filed by former Delaware County inmates who accused a jailer and sheriff's deputy of sexual misconduct up to and including rape.

11/04/2011 Related Story: Delaware County Sheriff Resigns, Residents Left With $13 Million Settlement

The 17 year sales tax increase was favored over a 3 year property tax that would have been levied on a relative few. More than 7,000 people voted for the increase, only 515 voted against it.

Delaware County residents held meetings throughout the year to discuss ways to pay the settlement. 

The increase will begin in July.