Sheriffs, Deputies Pushing For More Investigative Power

Sheriffs and deputies statewide are planning a rally in Harrisburg in a push to support a law that could give them more more investigative power.

Currently, Pennsylvania sheriffs and deputies have as much power to arrest people as any citizen, but they said House Bill 8525 could change that.

In Cambria County, deputies said their duties are serving papers, transporting prisoners and running security details. Sheriff Bob Kolar said, under current law, the sheriff's department is not allowed to investigate cases.

With police departments downsizing, Kolar said he wants to be able to help small departments. Kolar said his department and the rest of the 2,000 sheriffs and deputies statewide are unsure what they can and can't legally do when it comes to arresting suspected criminals. He said, in the past, it has put them and the public in danger.

Sheriffs and deputies in the state are asking residents to call their local lawmakers and ask them to support H.B. 2585.

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