Two new sherrifs started work in Prince George this week increasing the roster based out of the courthouse to 21.
The two were among 23 who recently completed training that began in January at the B.C. Justice Institute. In all, seven new sheriffs have been hired in Prince George in the past five months.
"In training these new sheriffs, we are continuing to provide resources to alleviate pressures in
court rooms around the province and ensure that British Columbians have a safe and efficient justice system," Attorney General Shirley Bond said in a statement.
The roster at the Prince George courthouse consists of an inspector, sergeants and deputy sheriffs and two auxiliaries which means they work on call as required.
Sheriffs' main duties are to escort prisoners between court, correctional centres and police lock-up facilities, provide courthouse and courtroom security, including the management of courthouse lock-up facilities and jury management.
Each new sheriff costs about $25,000 to train. Recruits who are just beginning their training start at a base wage of $19.99 per hour. With several years of experience, a deputy sheriff can make a maximum of $29.29 per hour or $53,491 per year.
The provincial government announced the new hires on Thursday.
