Organizational Structure

Office Responsibilities

In modern times, the office of sheriff in most of New York State has undergone significant changes, adding to the largely custodial and civil functions the responsibility for public safety as well. The office of sheriff in Ontario County is a professional organization as evidenced by the complexity of duties, the extensive training administered, and the expectations of the community. It is essential that its members understand the basic principles of its goals, objectives, and organizational structure.

Structure

As chief executive officer, the sheriff is responsible for the overall management and control of OCSO. Assisting and empowered to act in the sheriff's absence is the sheriff's appointee, the undersheriff. The next ranking member of what is referred to as the administration is the chief deputy, who occupies a competitive civil service position and is authorized to act in the absence of both the sheriff and the undersheriff.

The OCSO provides round-the-clock service; therefore, it shall at all times be under the direction of the highest-ranking officer on duty.

Code of Ethics

Sworn officers and auxiliaries are expected to abide by the Law Enforcement Code of Ethics as provided by the International Association of Chiefs of Police. In addition, all employees are bound by the provisions of the code of ethics as required by Section 806 of the New York State General Municipal Law.

Bureaus