Police vs. sheriffs – what are the differences? Both police officers and sheriff’s deputies serve their communities, but their duties and jurisdictions differ. Understanding the sheriffs vs. police distinction is essential for knowing who handles law enforcement in different areas.
What is a deputy sheriff vs. a police officer?
One of the main distinctions in the police vs. sheriffs comparison is the jurisdiction each serves. Police officers typically serve cities and towns, while sheriffs’ deputies handle law enforcement in counties and unincorporated areas.
Police officers generally work in city-run police departments under the authority of appointed chiefs, while sheriff’s deputies report to sheriffs and operate within countywide departments. This difference in oversight is a central aspect of the sheriffs vs. police divide.
What areas do police departments and sheriffs serve?
Police departments most commonly serve cities or municipalities but may serve other types of jurisdictions as well. Tribal police, for instance may serve Native American reservations and communities; some universities and colleges have their own police departments; and transit and port police may serve areas like seaports, airports and transportation settings. Nearly all states also have state police forces, including highway patrols.
While sheriffs may, as their counties’ highest law enforcement officials, have enforcement authority within their counties’ cities and towns, they focus more often on unincorporated areas and smaller municipalities that don’t have their own police forces. Sheriffs also frequently run their counties’ jails. Both types of organizations may have powers and roles shaped by state and local laws. This can make the roles of sheriffs vs. police distinct, even when they occasionally operate in the same regions.
How do the daily responsibilities of police vs. sheriffs compare?
The daily responsibilities of police vs. sheriffs have significant overlap. The primary responsibilities of police officers typically entail patrol; responding to emergency calls; investigating crimes, disturbances and emergencies; arresting suspects; and traffic and other enforcement. Deputies’ responsibilities are similar but can be broader, including running their county jails; serving warrants and court papers; providing security for courts and other official business; and handling evictions. Deputies often back up municipal officers when needed. Both roles may involve specialized duties (e.g., school resource officer, event security, etc.).
The roles and responsibilities of police officers and sheriffs’ deputies may overlap, and the providers often work together on local investigations. Both positions require similar training and skills.
How are police chiefs selected?
The chiefs who lead municipal police departments are usually appointed by mayors or city managers. Other entities, such as city councils or selection committees, may provide input. City councils may also have to approve chief selections. This process is spelled out in local law. Candidates generally require substantial law enforcement experience, including command responsibility, and advanced education.
Tribal, university and special jurisdiction chiefs are often appointed by governing boards.
How are sheriffs selected?
In the U.S., more than 95% of sheriffs are elected by citizens of their county. They usually serve four-year terms, though this can vary. The office often comes without term limits, meaning popular and effective sheriffs can serve for many years.
Some states require law enforcement certification to run for sheriff, while others do not. Most candidates have law enforcement or military backgrounds.
Being directly elected keeps sheriffs accountable to the public. In rural areas they often serve elevated roles in their communities and command broad local respect.
Is pay higher for police officers or sheriff’s deputies?
Compensation in the police vs. sheriffs comparison depends largely on location, department size and regional budgets.
Police officers often earn more in bigger cities and higher-cost-of-living states. California is generally regarded as the best-paying, while New Jersey, Alaska, Washington and Hawaii also rank highly. Big-city departments tend to offer higher base pay, better benefits and more opportunities for special assignments and overtime.
Pay for sheriffs’ deputies varies significantly by county. In smaller, rural and less-wealthy counties, deputies may earn less than city officers. In wealthier counties, they may earn more, especially with added responsibilities such as jails, courts and unincorporated patrol.
Union contracts can heavily influence pay, raises and benefits.
Are police or sheriffs more respected?
The answer to this depends on where you are, what people have experienced and how local agencies operate.
Agencies that build trust and engage with the community tend to be more respected, as do departments known for fairness and professionalism. High-profile events can shape how both types of departments are perceived.
In rural areas sheriffs can command great respect due to personal familiarity and their wide-ranging roles. In urban areas police may have a greater presence, but the tone of their relationship with the public may vary depending on their culture and actions.
