The Maine Sheriffs’ Association is dedicated to strengthening and preserving the Constitutional Office of the Sheriff and protecting the rights of the citizens. The sheriffs working in Maine’s 16 counties are striving to provide superior law enforcement, court security, civil process and correctional services.

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If you are impressed by the work of your local sheriff’s office and want to do your part in serving the community, then you have come to the right place. Go ahead and read this comprehensive article that will explain to you how to become a sheriff in Maine.

How to Become a Sheriff in Maine

The sheriff acts as the Chief County Law Enforcement Officer and performs the following duties:

  • Law Enforcement: Ensuring all laws are being implemented in the county
  • Jail Administration: Transportation of apprehended individuals
  • Court Services: Enforce civil orders issued by any court

Requirements to Become a Sheriff in Maine

The applicants will be eligible to apply only if they meet the following requirements:

  • Should be a legal US citizen
  • Should have no felony convictions
  • Should be capable of law enforcement
  • Should be in excellent physical and mental condition

Note: Age and work requirements might slightly vary between counties, so it is advised that candidates check with their respective counties regarding these requirements

How Long Does It Take to Become a Sheriff in Maine?

The candidates have to follow the process outlined below in order to become a sheriff:

Step 1: Gain Field Experience

The applicant has to work as a police officer for some years before applying for the sheriff’s position. The field experience prepares the candidates for this challenging role.

Step 2:Obtain an Undergraduate and Postgraduate Degree

The applicants are encouraged to obtain a bachelor’s and a master’s degree in a related discipline in order to equip themselves with the required knowledge. They can choose from the following degrees and majors:
Law Enforcement Intelligence, Law Enforcement Administration, Police Studies and Criminal Justice etc.

Step 3: Clear the Screening Stage

The candidates are then called for a written exam, as well as a physical exam. Those who clear the exams are then required to pass an interview process, a medical exam, a drug test and a background screening process.

Step 4: Contest and Win the Elections

After clearing the above stages, the candidates will then be directed to file the documents with their counties. Once that is done, they can begin their election campaign with full force. The candidates who receive the maximum votes are then appointed as sheriffs.

Salary of Sheriffs in Maine

As per the data reported by the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, the annual mean wage of First Line Supervisors of Police and Detectives in Maine was $72,990 in May 2018.