The Office
of Sheriff has been in existence since 1066. Originally appointed by
the English King, the "SHIRE REEVE" executed royal court orders and writs and
was generally responsible for the capture of wrong-doers in their
respective Shires. The office evolved and eventually the title was
shortened to "Sheriff". The office was soon adopted by colonial
governments. As the colonies broke from English rule, Sheriffs became
elected officials chosen by the people. Although the Sheriff served as
the chief law enforcement officer in the county, the sheriff's primary
responsibility was to keep the peace and serve as an officer of the court.
Each of
Each Missouri Sheriff provides county wide law enforcement and serves as officers of the
court and keepers of the jail.
The
Sheriff is charged with the responsibility of maintaining the public
peace and protecting the lives and property of all citizens in Cass
County, Missouri. His obligations and responsibilities have continuously
grown throughout the years.
The duties
of the Sheriff have increased as administrative procedures, court
decisions, and requirements of the laws have brought about sophisticated
and technical advancements to law enforcement. The Cass County Sheriff's
Office is comprised of five basic divisions which perform the varied
duties required by Missouri law and the criminal justice system. These divisions are
Patrol, Investigations, Court Services, Jail Operations, and Communications.
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