Can someone explain in full how to be Deputized???

Question

Can someone explain in full how to be Deputized and what powers are included with being Deputized??? I'm kinda confused on this issue and want to know more about this info. Also, if anyone has any web links thats would help me also...I stay in the Chicago Land area of Illinois (actually the suburbs). Thanks in advance...

D. Lowe

Answer 1

The county Sheriff can deputize an individual to enforce the law within that sheriff's jurisdiction - the county limits.  In our county, some of the city police officers are deputized so they can act outside of the city limits. This helps the departments cross support each other.

So, this is the way it works in our state - a State Trooper covers the entire state,  Deputy Sheriffs cover the county, Police Officers cover the city and the metermaid, the parking lots.  :-)

My understanding from our local sheriff is that he may limit the powers/authority he gives.  The Search & Rescue Team has the authority to collect evidence, restrict access into an area, and "request" a subject to remain in one location until an officer arrives.  However, that said, this authority is only given to trained personnel and almost always to law enforcement officers working in another agency, including public land rangers who are certified law enforcement officers.  Chance of the average citizen being deputized is slim.