What is the difference between a sheriff’s office and a police department?
The sheriff is elected and has authority anywhere within the county. The sheriff is, by law, required to maintain a jail, serve civil process, and provide resources to fight wildland fires. A sheriff’s office also provides law enforcement services for the unincorporated area of the county. The police department provides law enforcement services within their municipal boundaries.

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1. What is the difference between a sheriff’s office and a police department?
2. Where would I find a complete list of registered sex offenders living in Archuleta County?
3. Whom do I call to report a crime?