Becoming a sheriff in Indianapolis basically means becoming the sheriff of the Marion County. Since a city cannot have a sheriff, you cannot technically be the sheriff of Indianapolis. You can, however, be the sheriff of the county Indianapolis is located in.

Featured Programs and Schools

In addition to that, you must also note that the position of a sheriff is an elected one. And you cannot be appointed to it in Marion County. So you will have to gear up and plan out a campaign, win the elections and then take up the job.

The following guide provides a detailed look into how you can become a sheriff in Indianapolis, what are the requirements applicable to the Marion County and what steps you need to follow before you can become the sheriff of Marion County.

Requirements to Become a Sheriff in Indianapolis

The following list of requirements is a generic one. For specific information, you are requested to visit the Marion County office.

  • Candidates need to be citizens of the US
  • Candidates should be at least 18 years of age
  • Candidates should have a high school diploma or a GED at least
  • Candidates ought to be in sound mental and physical state
  • Candidates should have a valid driver’s license for the state of Indiana
  • Candidates should reside in the area where he/she wants to run for the office of sheriff

Steps to Become a Sheriff in Indianapolis

If you meet the above stated requirements, you may begin the actual process of applying to become a sheriff in Indianapolis. The following list is meant to be considered generic. For exact information, please get in touch with the relevant department at the Marion County.

Step 1 : Train and Graduate from a Police Academy

This is to ensure that you are capable of performing the duties of a law enforcement officer.

Step 2 : Get a Few Years of Experience

Once you become a police officer, it is recommended that you work for at least 3 to 5 years, before planning your sheriff campaign.

Step 3 : Consider Getting a College Degree

Even though this is not a mandatory concern, you are advised to get a college level degree, since this would set you apart from the competition and increase voters’ confidence in you.

Step 4 : Meet all the Requirements of Marion County

In addition to the above general requirements, the Marion County is likely to have additional tests and exams in place that you will need to clear.

Step 5 : Plan and Execute Your Campaign

Make sure you put together a capable team and sufficient finances for this phase.

Step 6 : Win Elections and Assume Office

If you manage to get the maximum votes, you will be sworn in as the new sheriff for four years.

How Much Does a Sheriff Make in Indianapolis?

According to the Marion County website, the Chief Deputy annual income ranges between $95,710.74 and $141,651.89. The salary data for Sheriff is not publicly available, but it is safe to assume that the salary of the Sheriff would be higher than that of the Chief Deputy.

You May Also Like

How to Become a Sheriff in New Mexico
How to Become a Sheriff in Tennessee
How to Become a Sheriff in Virginia