1. What is the difference between the Sheriff's Office and the Police Department?

The Sheriff's Office is an agency created under the Constitution of Georgia while a police department is created by the local governing authority, such as a county board of commissioners or city council. The office of the Sheriff traces its roots into deep into antiquity.

The Sheriff is elected by the people of the county while the chief/director of a police department is appointed by the governing authority. The people of the county may change the Sheriff through the electoral process but only the governing authority can change the head of a police department.

A police department is invested with power over the political subdivision, such as a city or county. A sheriff has police powers throughout the political subdivision and the state as well.

The police department exercises certain police powers while the Sheriff exercises these powers plus others. Specifically, there are state laws that must be enforced by the Sheriff. Many of these powers and duties were established under common law rule throughout the ages.

2. Who are considered sex offenders?

Sex offenders- person convicted of a criminal offense against a victim who is a minor or any dangerous sexual offense of this state, another state, territory, uniform code of military justice, or tribal court, must register within 72 hours after release from prison, placement on parole, supervised release or probation with the sheriff's office in the county where such person will reside.

Sexually dangerous predator- same as above but is determined most likely to commit another dangerous sexual offense.

3. How can I find out if there is a warrant for my arrest?

You can come to the Sheriff’s Office located at 1000 Detention Drive Clarkesville, Ga.

4. How can I get the Sheriff’s Office to help me recover my property?

A court order is required for us to legally assist you in the recovery of your property.

5. What are some bonding companies in the area?

1st Choice
706-754-2629
888-837-1510

Easy Out
706-776-6661
800-8489242

Kwik Bond
706-754-9999
800-413-2663