St. Charles County Deputies Form 'Save our Sheriff Department Campaign'

Some St. Charles County Sheriff's deputies are unhappy with a November ballot measure that could change the way the sheriff is selected, according to KMOV.

As Patch previously reported, the St. Charles County Council voted in August to  place a measure on the ballot that could establish a county police department, responsible for law enforcement duties in the county. 

Under the proposal, the St. Charles County Sheriff's Department would remain in charge of court services, prisoner transport and process serving.

The biggest change would be an appointed police chief, rather than the current election process for sheriff.

As Patch previously reported, Sheriff Tom Neer said his main purpose in suggesting the change is to ensure a qualified person is running law enforcement in St. Charles County.

To run for sheriff, a candidate must be a registered voter who has lived in the county for at least two years, at least 21 years old and free of felony convictions.

The appointed police chief would have to have 15 years of law enforcement experience, six years of management experience and a college degree.

According to KMOV, some deputies disagree and think having a sheriff accountable results in a professional department. A group of deputies have formed the "Save Our Sheriff Department Campaign" in protest of the ballot measure.

Patch will have more information as it becomes available.