Are you police officers?
No. We have no police powers other than the powers granted to any citizen. However, when assisting law enforcement personnel we may perform services normally performed by police officers.
Why are you necessary?Why are you necessary?
With law enforcement funding getting tighter and tighter, there are times when law enforcement agencies need more assistance than their complement of full time and reserve officers can provide. We help bridge that gap.
What is the difference between a Sheriff's Posse and a Ranger Company?
Posse members are volunteers, just as Rangers are; however, posses are authorized by each County Sheriff. They work under the general direction of the Sheriff and may receive some financial and training assistance from the Sheriff's Department. They usually wear identical or, very similar, uniforms, to deputy sheriffs. They may provide their own marked vehicles which are similar in appearance to Sheriff Department vehicles. They normally work in one county.
Rangers are recognized by state law and are authorized to work under the direction of any law enforcement agency. Rangers do not receive funds from any government agency. Rangers wear distinctive uniforms and drive their own distinctively marked privately owned vehicles on some assignments. At the direction of a police agency, Rangers may also drive police agency owned vehicles. All Ranger uniforms and most equipment are provided by the individual Ranger at their own expense. Rangers are also responsible for the cost of their own training, which is based on a shortened version of the Arizona Peace Officer Standards and Training requirements for police officers. Ranger companies will seek assistance from other Ranger Companies if the local company's resources are not up to the needs of the local law enforcement.
