POLICE RANKS AND RESPONSIBILITIES
POLICE RANKS AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Sheriff
The Sheriff is the highest-ranking official in the department. They oversee all operations, make executive decisions, manage department resources, and represent the agency in official matters. The Sheriff has full authority over all personnel and may take command in the field during high-priority incidents or major operations.
Undersheriff
Second-in-command to the Sheriff, the Undersheriff assists with day-to-day oversight and departmental leadership. They ensure protocols are enforced, help coordinate high-level operations, and assume the Sheriff’s responsibilities when necessary.
Assistant Sheriff
The Assistant Sheriff supports both the Sheriff and Undersheriff in administrative tasks, strategic planning, and supervision of department functions. They may oversee specific divisions or units and are actively involved in internal affairs and officer evaluations.
Deputy Sheriff Major
Often referred to simply as “Major,” this high-ranking officer assists in executive leadership and department-wide planning. They may command divisions, manage senior staff, and are trusted with overseeing large-scale events and high-risk tactical operations.
Captain
Captains are senior officers responsible for supervising Lieutenants and managing larger departmental units or shifts. They are deeply involved in field training programs, officer performance evaluations, and internal discipline when needed.
Lieutenant
Lieutenants directly manage Sergeants and oversee daily field operations. They are responsible for responding to major incidents, approving reports, conducting ride-alongs, and ensuring smooth shift transitions. Lieutenants also serve as mentors to both junior and mid-rank officers.
Sergeant
Sergeants are tactical supervisors in the field. They ensure effective response to calls, lead specialized teams (e.g., traffic enforcement, K9, SWAT), and maintain direct communication with dispatch. Sergeants are often first-line supervisors for field units.
Corporal
Corporals act as team leaders for smaller officer groups and assist Sergeants with supervision. They help train newer deputies and provide guidance in both routine patrols and critical incidents. Corporals also fill in as acting supervisors when necessary.
Senior Deputy
A recognition rank for experienced Deputies who have demonstrated exceptional service and knowledge. Senior Deputies serve as mentors to newer personnel and may be assigned to special tasks or advanced roles within the department.
Deputy
Deputies are the backbone of the Sheriff's Office. They respond to calls, patrol their assigned areas, enforce laws, and complete reports. Upon reaching this rank, a Deputy is certified to operate a marked patrol vehicle independently.
Probationary Deputy
Probationary Deputies have completed cadet training but are still under evaluation. They operate under closer supervision to ensure they meet departmental standards before receiving full Deputy status.
Cadet
The entry-level position within the department. Cadets are in training and must complete a set number of ride-alongs with senior staff, learn department protocols, and demonstrate basic law enforcement knowledge before promotion. Cadets are not permitted to patrol alone and must operate only in assigned training vehicles.