Editing Philadelphia Sheriff (section)

== Political History ==

The Sheriff's Office has historically been among Philadelphia's most politically connected positions, with the office providing jobs and opportunities for party organizations. Row office elections often featured party loyalists rewarded with nominations, while the office itself employed supporters in deputy and administrative positions. Civil service reforms reduced but did not eliminate patronage in the office.<ref name="sheriff"/>

Various sheriffs have faced controversies over operations, finances, and conduct. Questions about sale procedures, fee collections, and office management have generated audits, investigations, and reforms. The office's revenue generation through fees and its political appointments have made it a persistent subject of reform discussions about consolidating or restructuring county row offices.<ref name="sheriff"/>