State lawmakers consider full power for sheriffs

(Harrisburg) — State lawmakers are considering legislation that would give county sheriffs and their deputies full policing powers.

The state district attorneys’ association and the state F-O-P are opposed to the bill, but some individual DA’s, like Warren County’s Rob Greene, says he doesn’t know why the statewide groups stand opposed to the idea.

“This is a matter of public safety.  That’s the key.  When you can increase over two-thousand law enforcement officers with the stroke of a pen or with a vote, at no cost to the taxpayers, I don’t know what I’m missing.  It doesn’t make sense not to.” Greene said.

Several Sheriffs also testified in favor of the proposal.

There are concerns about training requirements and the county commissioners’ association says the legislation needs to further clarify duties and things like mutual response agreements and hot pursuits involving multiple agencies.

The testimony was gathered during a public hearing held by the House State Government Committee.