Understanding Law Enforcement in Small U.S. Towns: Sheriff's Department vs Police Department

Law enforcement in small U.S. towns can vary significantly depending on the town's size, location, and governance structure. This article will explore the differences between sheriff's departments and police departments, and how these structures impact law enforcement in small communities.

Sheriff's Departments: Covering the Larger Picture

Typically serving a county, the sheriff's department is headed by an elected sheriff and is most commonly found in rural areas or smaller towns. In these regions, the sheriff's department often handles law enforcement duties, especially in the absence of a local police department. The sheriff is the chief law enforcement officer of the county and is responsible for maintaining public order and ensuring the safety of the community.

Role of the Sheriff

The sheriff is responsible for a variety of tasks, including:

Arresting criminals and enforcing laws

Executing search warrants and warrants for the arrest of fugitives

Overseeing the jail and ensuring the safe custody of prisoners

Dealing with emergency situations and natural disasters

Police Departments: Focused Urban Centers

Local police departments, on the other hand, are typically found in incorporated towns and cities and are managed by a chief of police. These departments focus on law enforcement within the town's limits, providing protection and maintaining order within the community.

Management and Responsibilities of Police Departments

The chief of police plays a critical role in managing the department, overseeing operations, and ensuring that officers are equipped to handle a wide range of situations. Responsibilities of local police departments include:

Law enforcement and crime prevention

Responding to emergencies

Investigating crimes and accidents

Patrolling the area to maintain public order

Combined Structures in Small Towns

In some cases, a small town may have both a sheriff's department and a police department. The sheriff's department may cover the surrounding county, while the police department focuses on the town itself. The specific arrangement can vary widely based on local governance and community needs.

Examples and Exceptions

The decision on which structure to implement can depend on whether the town is incorporated or in unincorporated county jurisdiction. Even incorporated cities may elect to contract with the county sheriff for police services. This is very common in Los Angeles County, where approximately 20 small cities contract with LASO (Los Angeles Sheriff's Office).

For example, my own small town with a population of fewer than 15,000 has its own police department. However, it's worth noting that in other cases, a small town may only have a sheriff's substation and the sheriff's patrol covering the area.

Average Department Size and Its Implications

The average department size for sworn officers in the United States is between 46 and 49. This figure can be misleading when considering the wide range of department sizes. For instance, a major city like New York or Los Angeles might have hundreds of sworn officers, while a small town might have just one sworn officer. This variation underscores the importance of understanding the specific needs and structure of each small town.

Historical Context

In the past, small towns only had sheriff's departments. As cities grew larger and the demands for law enforcement services increased, police departments began to emerge. Currently, it’s not a requirement for a town to have both a sheriff's department and a police department. The historical role of sheriffs as the primary law enforcement officers has evolved as urban areas expanded and required specialized police forces.

In conclusion, the choice between a sheriff's department and a police department in small U.S. towns is influenced by a range of factors, including population size, geographic location, and local needs.