Apr. 18, 2018
HARRISBURG -- The House State Government Committee Tuesday voted to advance legislation, authored by Rep. Jim Marshall (R-Beaver/Butler), which would give sheriffs and deputy sheriffs limited law enforcement powers, allowing them to aid in community protection.
House Bill 466, which was amended in committee, would grant sheriffs and deputy sheriffs who have received law enforcement training the power to make arrests without warrants while acting within the scope of their county court-related duties.
Under current law, a sheriff’s powers are limited to civil enforcement, working with the courts on warrants, transporting prisoners and issuing concealed weapons permits.
Marshall noted that the powers and duties of sheriffs and deputy sheriffs of Pennsylvania have been questioned and challenged through numerous court cases.
“We need to do everything we can to protect the safety and well-being of Pennsylvanians,” Marshall said. “This legislation would help clear up confusion and allow trained deputies and sheriffs to provide some additional protection in their county communities.”
House Bill 466 now awaits consideration by the full House of Representatives.
Representative Jim Marshall
14th District
Pennsylvania House of Representatives
Media Contact: Abbey Haslam
717.260.6222
ahaslam@pahousegop.com
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