Missouri Newly Elected Sheriff’s Conference

Congratulations on being elected sheriff – the job of your dreams! You should be incredibly proud of your accomplishment. The local community has placed a lot of faith and trust in you, not just the office.

As you take on this important role, it’s important to understand the immense responsibility that comes with being sheriff. No other unelected official has a greater impact on the safety and security of your community. Here’s something you might not know: there are over 550 Missouri statutes directly referencing the “sheriff,” with an additional 35 using the phrase “chief law enforcement officer” and 19 using “jailer” – all pointing to you.  And that’s not all!  There are over 122 statutes that apply when you act as county coroner, and another 134 dealing with public governmental agency records.  Federal laws add another layer of complexity, covering employment and discrimination issues, jail operations, and inmate rights.

To help new sheriffs like yourself hit the ground running, the Missouri Sheriffs’ Association offers a two-week “New Sheriffs’ School” every four years.  This year’s program is scheduled for two separate sessions at the Margaritaville Lake Resort in Osage Beach, MO. The first session will run from December 9th through 13th, and the second session will follow from December 16th through 19th.

This intensive training is designed to equip you with the need-to-know information for success. It’s also a fantastic opportunity to network with fellow new sheriffs and learn from seasoned veterans who are there to mentor and support you in any way they can.

For more information, contact Jeanne Merritt at 573-529-6900 or email.