The Myth and Reality of Town Sheriffs in Fiction and Real Life

Have you noticed in movies or TV shows that the head of a town's police force is often portrayed as a sheriff, even though sheriffs typically oversee a county’s unit?

This misconception about towns having sheriffs is something that scriptwriters have picked up from watching Westerns, which give that impression. A lot of people hold this belief, even if it’s not entirely accurate. For example, in the review of the classic film High Noon, the main character Will Kane is frequently referred to as the town sheriff, despite the movie using the term "marshal," which is the correct term for the role.

Fiction vs. Reality

In reality, most towns in modern times have renamed their peace officers to "Chief of Police." Historically, the title of "marshal" was used more commonly, especially in smaller towns. However, as cities grew and their police forces became more formalized, the title "chief of police" became more prevalent. This change often reflects the increasing professionalism and organization of local law enforcement.

It's important to note that while the title can vary, the function of these leadership roles remains similar, with both marshals and chief of police overseeing local law enforcement operations.

The Role of Sheriff

Debunking the myth is crucial, especially for those who are unfamiliar with the distinctions between these titles. In actuality, sheriffs are the heads of the county’s law enforcement. They are responsible for maintaining peace and order within the county and directly report to the county commissioner or board. A sheriff typically commands a larger department, with a broader jurisdiction that spans the entire county.

Exceptions in Real Life

However, in certain cases, small towns or municipalities may contract with the local sheriff's office to provide police services. This arrangement can be more economical and efficient for some communities. For instance, in Los Angeles County, a significant number of incorporated municipalities have contracted with the LASO (Los Angeles Sheriff's Office) instead of forming their own police departments. Approximately half of these suburbs rely on the LASO for their law enforcement needs due to the cost-effectiveness of this arrangement.

This practice not only saves money but also ensures that these smaller communities benefit from the expertise and resources of a larger, more established police force.

Conclusion

The portrayal of town chiefs as sheriffs in movies and TV shows is largely a product of the influence of Western films, where the image of a sheriff is strong and enduring. However, in reality, the titles and roles of local law enforcement leaders often differ, with "chief of police," "marshal," and "sheriff" all representing different levels of jurisdiction and responsibility. Understanding these distinctions is essential for accurate portrayal and appreciation of modern law enforcement.