Alderman Sonier proposes amendment clarifying sheriff training requirements in St. Louis

In a recent meeting of the Public Safety Committee on July 10, 2025, the St. Louis City Council engaged in a significant discussion regarding an amendment to Board Bill Number 33, which seeks to clarify the training requirements for sheriff's deputies in relation to state law. The proposed amendment aims to specify that sheriffs and their deputies are not required to pursue peace officer training, a point that has led to misunderstandings about their roles within law enforcement.

Alderman Sonier, who introduced the amendment, emphasized the importance of this clarification to avoid confusion about the duties and classifications of law enforcement personnel. He noted that the amendment reflects existing state statutes but aims to make these provisions clearer within the local legislative framework.

However, the amendment faced scrutiny from other committee members. Alderman DeVoe expressed concerns about the lack of thorough research on the amendment, stating he had not seen it in writing until the meeting. He indicated that he could not support the amendment without further investigation into its implications. Alderman Oldenburg echoed this sentiment, suggesting that the sheriff's input would be crucial for a well-rounded discussion, as the sheriff had not been present at the meeting.

The committee also reflected on the broader context of law enforcement training in the region. Some members recalled past efforts to encourage sheriff deputies and city marshals to obtain peace officer certification, particularly in light of evolving best practices in law enforcement following significant events in recent years. There was a shared concern that the amendment might reverse progress made in training and accountability.

As the discussion unfolded, it became clear that while the amendment aimed to clarify existing laws, it also raised questions about the future of law enforcement training and the roles of various officers in St. Louis. The committee members agreed to further review the amendment and its implications, with some expressing a desire for more time to consider its potential impact before moving forward.

The meeting underscored the ongoing dialogue about public safety and law enforcement practices in St. Louis, highlighting the complexities involved in legislative changes that affect community safety and officer training. As the committee prepares for future discussions, the outcome of this amendment could have lasting effects on how law enforcement is structured and perceived in the city.