COLUMBUS, Ind. -- The Bartholomew County sheriff is utilizing unemployed ex-offenders to help with community cleanup projects.

Felons on probation or house arrest are being assigned to jail work crews three days a week to help with jobs like picking up roadside trash, 6News' Ben Morriston reported.

"You know, the economy is bad. They don't have jobs," said Bartholomew County Sheriff Mark Gorbett. "They have fines to pay and things like that, but at least they're out here now doing something. If they can't find a job, they're picking up trash, at least helping put back into the community."

Officials said it's also an effort to help the community and motivate ex-offenders to find jobs.

"We have some who would just rather sit at home and do nothing and they're not out even looking for a job," said Rob Gaskill with Bartholomew County Community Corrections.

Some of the ex-offenders said they were frustrated they weren't being paid for the work to help cover their probation fees. Others said they were looking forward to finding a full-time position.

"I haven't had a felony conviction for five years, still it's difficult for me to find a job, almost impossible," said ex-offender Jason Sparks. "I'm able bodied person, ready to work, willing to work and can do a good job. I just need that chance."