NEGAUNEE TOWNSHIP -- Ten Michigan State Police troopers from Upper Peninsula posts have been working in Saginaw this summer, aiming to combat major crimes in that area.

U.P. troopers work alongside local agencies, handling murders, sexual assaults, and robberies. Captain John Halpin, District Commander for the U.P., says Saginaw residents appreciate the extra support. Halpin also stressed the importance to assist in statewide efforts.

"Everybody's under a budget constraint right now, so any bodies and boots we can put on the ground to help answer calls for service is great," added Halpin.

Local agencies, like the Marquette and Alger County Sheriff Departments, helped cover patrols when the state police were short personnel. There are four troopers still working downstate, and they'll be done at the end of September.

The deployment plan will be reassessed by the governor's office after they return to the Upper Peninsula.