The difference between police, sheriffs and marshals

When passing a police, sheriff or marshal vehicle, I’ve often wondered what the difference is between these law enforcement entities. 

• Police officer: Oversees the protection of people and prevention of crimes, enforces motor vehicle laws, responds to emergency and non-emergency calls.

• Sheriff: Usually at the county level, provides security for the courts, serves papers such as warrants and eviction notices and oversees the jail.

• Marshal: Enforcement officers of the court providing security while also serving subpoenas and arrest warrants. 

While glad to discover a bit of insight, here’s to hoping we never have to experience any of these issues firsthand. 

– Halle Fleming, 360 Media, Inc.