SPRINGFIELD (AP) — The Illinois agency reviewing complaints against judges has a growing backlog of cases.

Auditor General William Holland reported Thursday that the Judicial Inquiry Board has fewer staff members than in the past while the number of complaints is growing.

The board reviews allegations of misconduct by judges or mental or physical incapacity. The board prosecutes cases that it deems have merit before the Illinois Courts Commission.

The audit reported the board receives an average 529 cases each year — 23 percent more than in 2000.

The board replied that the growing inventory is because of more complaints — particularly from inmates in state prisons — and fewer staff members.

A staff member said executive director Kathy Twine was out of the office Thursday and unavailable for comment.