Q&A for How to Become a Sheriff

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What qualities do you need to be a good police officer?

Saul Jaeger, MS
Police Captain, Mountain View Police Department
Saul Jaeger is a Police Officer and Captain of the Mountain View, California Police Department (MVPD). Saul has over 17 years of experience as a patrol officer, field training officer, traffic officer, detective, hostage negotiator, and as the traffic unit’s sergeant and Public Information Officer for the MVPD. At the MVPD, in addition to commanding the Field Operations Division, Saul has also led the Communications Center (dispatch) and the Crisis Negotiation Team. He earned an MS in Emergency Services Management from the California State University, Long Beach in 2008 and a BS in Administration of Justice from the University of Phoenix in 2006. He also earned a Corporate Innovation LEAD Certificate from the Stanford University Graduate School of Business in 2018.

Saul Jaeger, MS

Police Captain, Mountain View Police Department

Expert Answer

You need to have high moral values and be able to make quick decisions using both your heart and mind at the same time. You also need to be somewhat athletic. You need good interpersonal skills too—it's okay if you're more introverted, but you do need to be able to communicate well with people.

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Question

Why do I have to get elected?

Community Answer

It is the law in most states, derived from the state constitution or other legislative action. Many different county offices, such as Treasurer or Clerk, are also elected. In some cases an appointment may be made to fill a vacancy in office (for example, if a sheriff leaves office before the end of the term). Check with your state board of elections for specific qualifications and guidance on filing.

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Question

Can a normal citizen who is not in law enforcement run for the office of sheriff?

Community Answer

Yes, they can. The requirements for sheriff are more like the requirements to vote or run for office than those of a police officer.

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Can I be a sheriff without going to college?

Community Answer

Yes you can but it will take longer.

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Question

What does a sheriff do?

Donagan

Top Answerer

In the United States a sheriff is the chief law-enforcement officer within a county (excluding cities and towns). The sheriff supervises operation of the county jail.

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Can I become a sheriff anywhere?

Community Answer

You can run for sheriff in the county you live in. If a person lives in county X, they can only run for sheriff in county X. Keep in mind that different locations have different requirements.

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