Yes, many historians believe that the word “COP” was first used in the mid-1800s to describe a Constable on Patrol, which led to the nickname "COP." Additionally, constables are one of two law enforcement agencies established by the Texas Constitution, specifically in Article 5, Section 18.
Their authority to enforce state laws is derived from the Texas Code of Criminal Procedure, Section 2.12, which defines who qualifies as a peace officer.
A Constable is elected to serve a specific precinct within their county, but they have jurisdiction throughout the entire county and, in some cases, in adjacent counties as well.
They are responsible for serving court orders from various Texas counties, not just those in Rockwall or from Justice of the Peace courts.
Constables may take individuals into custody at a judge's request and transport them directly to the court.
Additionally, they have the authority to make arrests for any felony offenses committed in their presence anywhere in the state of Texas.
Constables have all the powers and responsibilities of any Texas Peace Officer under the Texas Code and Criminal Procedure 14.03.
They can arrest, with or without warrant, those individuals found in violation of any laws.
Wed, 19 Aug 2026 14:30 -0600
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