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Constables are not paid by taxpayer money nor receive a salary from the state. They are paid by fees assessed to the defendant or plaintiff, or those requesting service for only the services rendered. Constables are likely the most cost-efficient form of law enforcement and can actually save and recover money for the state, county, or municipality.
Certified Constables initially receive 80hrs of state mandated training under PA Act 49 and 40hrs firearms training also under the same act. 40hrs of annual continuing education is required to maintain certification. Many constables also elect to take many more trainings throughout each year. Mentored by seasoned constables and gaining valuable experience each day, some constables have and will serve with up to 20 years or more experience.
Constables are not issued any equipment and are required to provide their own uniforms, all equipment, and vehicles at their own cost. Additionally, constables are required to be bonded and pay for their own liability insurance. Any training, materials, and/or other supplies are also paid for by the constables themselves.
There are many titles within the law enforcement field from police to sheriff, etc. Each type of agency has its own purpose and scope of practice. Constables (Peace Officers) through virtue of the office of constable, are one type of law enforcement agency. Many powers and duties overlap with other agencies and officials such as police officers and sheriffs, and some are different. State law defines what powers and duties are given to each agency within the law enforcement community.
Yes. Under Title 44 of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes and applicable law, a constable has authority to make arrests when authorized by statute or court order, including to stop an active breach of the peace, protect persons or property, serve lawful warrants, or when a qualifying offense is committed in the constable’s presence.
These powers are exercised consistent with current Pennsylvania criminal statutes and constitutional standards.
Yes. A constable may temporarily detain an individual when reasonably necessary to maintain safety, prevent a breach of the peace, or protect the constable, the involved parties, and the public.
A constable may also conduct a brief investigative detention when reasonable suspicion exists that a person is involved in criminal activity, consistent with constitutional standards.
Additionally, a constable may detain or hold an individual when acting pursuant to a lawful court order, warrant, or at the direction or coordinated request of another law enforcement agency.
A detention may include a verbal notice that a person is not free to leave. Depending on the circumstances and safety considerations, a person may be temporarily directed to another nearby area or briefly secured in a constable vehicle for scene control or safety purposes.
When reasonably necessary for officer or public safety, a person may also be temporarily restrained, including the use of handcuffs, without automatically converting the detention into an arrest.
A detention is not the same as an arrest and does not automatically result in criminal charges.
Any detention must be reasonable in scope and duration and must comply with constitutional and statutory limits.