Police Department vs. Sheriff’s Office: Who Actually Has Authority?

The Redemption Project Podcast · Apr 15, 2026 · 12m

Most people know that police officers and sheriff’s deputies both wear badges and answer calls, but the agencies behind them are built very differently.

Brandon Burley explains the practical difference between a city police department and a county sheriff’s office: who they serve, how they are funded, who they answer to, and why one is usually appointed while the other is elected.

This episode also explains why police departments usually operate under city government, why sheriffs often manage county jails and court security, how overlapping jurisdiction works, and why the answer can change…