Pennsylvania law enforcement system
Since 1681
In 1681, William Penn was granted the charter to form the colony of New Wales, which was changed soon after to Pennsylvania.
Sheriffs and Constables continued serving in this area under the newly formed colony in a common law tradition.
1800's to present
In the late 1800's, communities began hiring police to supplement Elected Law Enforcement (ELE) leaders. These employee-based agencies were granted certain borrowed authorities of State Constables. Employees who operate under constable authority are known as ex-officio constables (XOC).
Today, Pennsylvania State Police, County Police, and Municipal Police throughout the state support Elected Sheriffs and Constables in each and every community.
Constables in Pennsylvania are Public Officers under Article VI of the Pennsylvania State Constitution. This is further defined in PA Title 44, Part IV.
Pennsylvania State Constables are elected locally, but have statewide jurisdiction.