Delco sheriff finds money savings, physically fit candidates with new requirements

There’s a new sheriff in Delaware County, and he’s shaking things up.

Recently, Sheriff Siddiq Kamara required that candidates to become deputies prove that they could meet the physical requirements set by the law enforcement academy before they were hired.

Kamara is the first Delaware County sheriff to require this.

By doing this, Kamara saved the Sheriff’s Office and the county at 

at least $71,500 in academy fees for the 11 candidates who recently applied, said his chief of staff, Sarah Charles. 

But there would be other costs the Sheriff’s Office would bear for those who had not already gone through the training process, such as salaries and benefits while they train for about six months, she said.

Most Pennsylvania law enforcement academies charge around $6,400 for the Act 120 (law enforcement training) program, depending on the academy, said Charles. For example, the Delaware County Community College Police Academy charges about $6,400 tuition. The courses run 23 to 26 weeks. 

There are also additional costs if the candidate is hired before completing their training. Sheriff’s Offices typically pay for tuition, for uniforms at $600 or more, and a psychological exam and medical screening. There is also the cost of ammunition, range fees, and a background investigation, she said.

The Delaware County Sheriff’s Office candidates were tested on required benchmarks in areas including timed running, push-ups, and sit-ups to make sure they are prepared for the academy. 

“Excellence in law enforcement starts with preparation,” Kamara said. “Our deputies train hard so they can serve Delaware County with strength, endurance, and pride.”