Town Serjeant

The Town Serjeant (alternative spelling Town Sergeant) is the Serjeant-at-Arms for local municipalities in English borough councils and serves as a law enforcement official for some towns in the United States.

Town Serjeant and others at a local event

The position dates to the 16th Century and its functions included macebearer, bailiff, and gaoler. Historically, the serjeant aided the mayor and also served a ceremonial role.[1] Today in the United Kingdom, the position is largely ceremonial, without law-enforcement responsibility.

It the United States, particularly in New England states such as Rhode Island, towns still elect town sergeants who serve a law enforcement role.[2]

References
  1. The Reformation and the Towns in England: Politics and Political Culture, C. 1540-1640 (Oxford University Press, 1998) By Robert Tittler, pg. 222
  2. Rhode Island General Laws (RIGL) CHAPTER 45-16 http://webserver.rilin.state.ri.us/Statutes/TITLE45/45-16/INDEX.HTM Archived 2015-09-07 at the Wayback Machine


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