A drug dealer's business could now help fund the sheriff's department in Magoffin County.

Several weeks ago, deputies discovered 80 thousand dollars worth of stolen property while searching a home for drugs.

This week, the court system awarded all the items to the department to auction off whatever is not claimed.

The sheriff says no one has claimed tens of thousands of dollars worth of stuff, so they will auction it off.

Officials say this could be just what they need to continue paying for drug investigations in a tight budget.

The Magoffin County Sheriff's Department evidence room is full of tools, electronics, guitars, and guns.

Sheriff Bob Jordan says they found it all while investigating a drug case a few weeks ago.

He says they searched Harold Risner's home on Blooming Branch and found pills, cash, and the hundreds of stolen items.

Risner pleaded guilty this week to drug charges. As part of his plea deal, he forfeited all the stolen items to the Sheriff's Department.

Sheriff Jordan says this is just what they need in the tough economic times and tight budget.

"It's a rough time for us here right now. Our funds are getting low." Says Jordan.

All of the unclaimed stolen items will be auctioned off on November 14th.

The expected tens of thousands of dollars raised will go to the Sheriff's Department's drug investigation fund.

"This was a big help, and this will be a big help. This will keep us going and keep us fighting for several more months. Now we can still operate." Says Jordan.

If you think any of the stolen items are yours, you must have the model or serial number to claim at the sheriff's office.

The auction will be November 14th at 10 o'clock at the Magoffin County District 3 Fire Department.