Washington County Sheriff’s Office

Overview

The Washington County Sheriff’s Office is a constitutionally elected law enforcement agency located in Montpelier, serving the communities of Washington County. Situated at 10 Elm Street, near the county courthouses, the Sheriff’s Office focuses on specialized law enforcement functions that differ from municipal police departments. While they provide contract patrol services to several towns, their primary statutory mandates involve support for the judicial system and civil administration.

Judicial and Civil Services

Court Security: The department is responsible for ensuring the safety and order of the Washington County Superior Court, Criminal, Civil, and Family Divisions, as well as the Vermont Supreme Court, protecting judges, staff, and the public.
Civil Process: Deputies serve legal documents such as subpoenas, writs, eviction notices, and restraining orders throughout the county. This is a fee-based service essential to the operation of the civil justice system.
Prisoner Transport: The Sheriff’s Office manages the secure transportation of inmates between correctional facilities and courthouses for hearings and trials.

Patrol and Community Safety

In addition to court duties, the Sheriff’s Office contracts with towns like East Montpelier, Plainfield, and Marshfield to provide motor vehicle patrol and emergency response. They also offer fingerprinting services for employment and background checks and participate in traffic safety campaigns. The historic brick building on Elm Street serves as their administrative headquarters.