The Role and Power of Sheriffs

Sheriffs hold a unique position in law enforcement, functioning as both enforcers of the law and local political figures, particularly in rural counties. Unlike police chiefs, they are elected authorities who operate with a considerable degree of autonomy, making them difficult to remove from office. This power allows them to implement their own policies and enforce laws such as evictions and immigration control without significant oversight. Overall, sheriffs can manipulate their roles to align with personal beliefs, sometimes positioning themselves above federal and state authorities.