FRANK PETERSON was elected as the first Sheriff of Ventura County in February of 1873. Since Sheriff Peterson, the county has elected 17 other sheriffs to serve. In the late 1800's the duties of the sheriff primarily consisted of collecting taxes and catching horse thieves. The role of law enforcement has changed significantly since those days, as have our laws, but surprisingly many old laws remain. For example, this current California law was enacted in 1872: Penal Code Section 597h – Attaching live animal to moving machine to be pursued by dogs. (a) It shall be unlawful for any person to tie or attach or fasten any live animal to any machine or device propelled by any power for the purpose of causing that animal to be pursued by a dog or dogs. #vcsheriff #proudtobevcso #deputy #sheriff #police #officer #fbf #flashbackfriday