MILWAUKEE - Deadbeat parents could soon have an easier time ripping-off their kids. Child support administrators are worried that the upcoming county budget will not restore federal money taken away by Washington.

As we've reported, that will mean lost chances for counties like Milwaukee to catch deadbeats.

Deadbeat parents ignoring what the courts order, neglecting the needs of their kids, fleeing from paying child support

The only safety nets are County Child Support Enforcement Officers, and now those nets are in danger of being cut down.

The 2005 Federal Budget Deficit Reduction Act led to massive cuts in child support enforcement. Those cuts go into effect this year, and Wisconsin stands to lose $25 million.

In Milwaukee County, that means half the staff may be laid off.

"For many families in Milwaukee, let's get to the bottom line, having your child support is not a luxury. Having child support is the difference between being able to pay your rent this month and being evicted," Milwaukee County Child Support Enforcement Officer Lisa Marks said.

Ron staple is a perfect example. The deadbeat gospel singer owes $50,000. We found him in New York, and following our chat he was arrested on felony failure to pay charges.

There was a cost to Wisconsin to issue the warrant, and there's a big cost to bring him back to our state.

If the budget cuts become permanent, cases like Ron Staples might not be pursued in the future.

A very nervous time for child support officers.