Sheriff
Law at the county level is enforced by sheriffs and deputy sheriffs.
Places where city police departments do not work or exist are covered by sheriffs and deputy sheriffs. A sheriff’s job is similar to that of a city police chief. A deputy sheriff’s job is similar to that of a police officer.
Sheriffs and deputy sheriffs respond to calls, follow and apprehend suspected criminals, observe suspicious or unlawful activities and safety risks, enforce traffic laws, give citations, patrol specific areas, assist accident victims and inspect the causes, and keep traffic flowing by taking control at accident scenes.
Deputy sheriffs often work as investigators where they collect evidence and facts, and find and apprehend those with warrants for their arrest. Summonses and subpoenas are served, property is seized, and courthouse security is provided by deputies holding civil duties.
Deputy sheriffs holding jail-related duties convey prisoners to the District Attorney’s office and from jails to medical facilities or courtrooms. Visitors to the jail are interrogated by deputy sheriffs to see why they have come and then direct them where to go. These deputies sometimes oversee prisoners and hold duties comparable to those of a corrections officer. Taking photos and fingerprints of prisoners and completing necessary paperwork is completed by some deputies.
Written reports and logs of daily activities are completed by all sheriffs and deputy sheriffs. It is essential for them to keep precise records to use when testifying in court.
Occupational activities:
- Carry out arrest warrants. Locate offenders and take them into custody.
- Enforce traffic laws and issue citations.
- Investigate suspicious activities and safety hazards.
- Patrol courthouse, grand jury room, or assigned areas to provide security and enforce laws.
- Patrol assigned areas and respond to calls. Question people entering secured area in jail to determine their purpose. Direct or re-route them.
- Pursue and arrest suspected criminals.
- Question people entering secured area in jail to determine their purpose. Direct or re-route them.
- Seize property by court order. Place notices in public places.
- Serve subpoenas and summonses.
- Take control of accident scenes to maintain traffic flow. Assist victims and investigate causes.
- Transport prisoners or defendants between jail, District Attorney’s office, or medical facilities.
- Write reports, maintain accurate records, and log daily activities.
