Deputy Sheriff
A Deputy Sheriff serves in a highly responsible and visible capacity in the protection of life and property; performs law enforcement and crime prevention work by patrolling assigned areas, answering calls for service, and investigating crimes. The Deputy Sheriff works under general supervision within a framework of established procedures and is expected to perform a variety of law enforcement duties with only occasional instruction, assistance and supervision. Adequate performance at this level requires the knowledge of departmental procedures and the ability to choose among a variety of alternatives in solving emergency and routine incidents. The Deputy Sheriff is expected to work productively even in the absence of supervision, and also could be asked to assist in the supervision and training of new, less experienced, law enforcement employees. General supervision of the Deputy Sheriff is provided by a Sheriff's Sergeant or a higher level of sworn personnel depending upon assignment. A Deputy Sheriff shall be assigned to the Field Training Officer program and complete a one (1) year probationary period. Laterals shall have an abbreviated Field Training Officer Program as deemed appropriate, but will also complete a one (1) year probation period.
Depending upon assignment, duties may include but are not limited to the following:
- Patrol County in a radio car or on foot; answer calls for the protection of life and property and the enforcement of County and State laws; may conduct both preliminary and follow-up investigations of disturbances, prowlers, burglaries, thefts, holdups, and other criminal incidents; check buildings for physical security.
- Make critical decisions as necessary in the field regarding emergency situations and apprehension techniques.
- Make arrests as necessary; interview victims, complainants, and witnesses; interrogate suspects; gather and preserve evidence; testify and present evidence in court.
- Contact and cooperate with other law enforcement agencies in matters relating to the investigation of crimes and the apprehension of offenders.
- Prepare reports of arrests made, investigations conducted, and unusual incidents observed.
- Perform Coroner duties as assigned.
- Serve warrants, subpoenas, and civil documents.
- Assist local fire departments within the County in traffic control and fire rescue.
- Administer first aid in emergency situations.
- Assist in County search and rescue operations over a wide area, sometimes involving rugged terrain and difficult weather conditions.
- Perform Bailiff duties as assigned.
- Serve as Rangemaster for the Department as assigned.
- Maintain contact with citizens regarding potential law enforcement problems and preserve good relationships with the general public.