Factually! with Adam Conover Criminal Gangs Run the Sheriff's Department with Jessica Pishko
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Nov 20, 2024 Jessica Pishko, a lawyer and journalist, discusses the alarming unchecked power held by sheriff departments in the U.S. She emphasizes how this leads to widespread corruption, highlighting the existence of deputy gangs within the LA County Sheriff's Department. Pishko delves into the historical evolution of sheriffs, the complexities of accountability, and the challenges faced by marginalized communities. The conversation underscores the urgent need for police reform and grassroots advocacy to combat systemic issues within law enforcement.
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Sheriff Origins
- Sheriffs originated in England as shire reeves, collecting taxes and delivering orders.
- Early American sheriffs mirrored this role, evolving from posses and vigilance committees, especially in the West.
Early Sheriff's Jail Practices
- Historically, sheriffs profited from jailing people, including enslaved individuals, through a fee-for-service system.
- They charged enslavers for holding enslaved people until they were retrieved.
Accountability Issues with Elected Sheriffs
- The elected nature of sheriffs creates an accountability problem, as they often claim legitimacy solely from their election.
- The public may not fully understand a sheriff's responsibilities, and elections only occur every four years.
