Deputy Sheriff

General Definition

A Deputy Sheriff enforces regulations of the Sheriff's Department at the full performance level. A position in this class carries out assigned duties which safeguard both lives and property. A position in this class reports directly through the chain of command in the Sheriff's Department.

Security of Both Lives and Property

• Transportation of inmates
• Service of court orders and writs
• Performs levies and guards prisoners
• Enforces court orders, including injunctions
• Secures property and maintains order and crimes and civil code
• Prepares reports and processes legal papers
• Affords assistance to police during incidents in court

Civil Function

• Serve civil papers, writs and protection from abuse orders
• Perform sheriff levies and child custody papers and civil process
• Work independently with minimal supervision
• Attend civil legal updates courses

Transport Function

• Transport prisoners to and from various penal institutions
• Search individuals being transported for weapons, drugs and other contraband
• Available to work after hours on an on-call basis

Warrant Function

• Serve bench warrants, domestic warrants and probation violation
• Attend schools, continuing education or specialized training designated by the Sheriff or his designee
• Successful completion of required probation period

Court Function

• Maintain courtroom security
• Control prisoners and escort same to court
• Provide security for courthouse, courtroom, County employees and the general public
• Transport prisoners between penal institutions
• Serve judges and court staff by facilitating courtroom operations

Required Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Knowledge of the methods and techniques commonly employed in law-enforcement security and transport work
• Knowledge of the principles and practices of the criminal and civil justice system, including the rules of procedure
• Knowledge of the goals and objectives of law enforcement at the County level
• Familiarity with the use and maintenance of handguns
• Ability to maintain order, including the control of disruptive individuals in a variety of situations
• Ability to locate geographical locations, including alternate routes, across the County and State
• Ability to keep records and prepare reports
• Knowledge of the Pennsylvania Crimes Code, the Rules of Criminal Procedure and the Laws of Arrest
• Knowledge of the usage of the equipment provided