[justshutupandtakeit]

This is a false view circulated by the militia types and is not true at all. They have even claimed at one point that the powers of sheriffs are laid out in the Constitution. When you hear this said just ask where the word "Sheriff" is in the Constitution or better yet make a bet with them that the word is not in the Constitution. Easy money.

Counties have no power to thwart State or Federal authorities even if they are doing something stupid. In unincorporated areas of a county a sheriff might well have a lot of power but not in cities.

[B4Ranch]

How much would you care to bet that the word "sheriff" isn't in state constitutions. There is no federal sheriffs, only marshalls who have comparable powers.

Be careful about how you bet. It can be expensive.

[B4Ranch]

Counties have no power to thwart State or Federal authorities even if they are doing something stupid.

BIG HORN, WYOMING -- 10/01/97 -- Wyoming sheriff tells feds to stay out

According to Sheriff Mattis, the case shows that he is legally responsible for all law enforcement activities which go on in his county. Mattis has put all federal agencies on notice that they are not to perform any law enforcement activity in his county unless he personally approves the operation in advance.