[2] The Sheriff's Office handles investigations concerning cigarette tax enforcement, real estate property/deed fraud and other matters deemed necessary by the Department of Finance.

Sheriffs were compensated by charging fees for enforcing civil orders in addition to keeping a monetary percentage (known as poundage) of what their office would seize.

By 1915, plans were made by the commissioner of accounts to alter the way sheriffs were compensated to include a determined salary instead of having the office holder personally retain fees and poundage.

[6] At the same time, the sheriff's former responsibility for running prison systems was transferred to the newly established New York City Department of Correction.

The Field Support Unit wears a less formal version without metal badges and pins, and with writing on their shirts and jackets.

LEB deputies perform a wide array of tasks such as evictions,[12] civil arrest warrants,[13] orders to commit, and the seizure and sale of property pursuant to judicial mandates.

[14][15] Businesses and individuals that owe the city money pursuant to unpaid tax warrants, environmental control board summons and fire and health code violation fines are targeted for enforcement action.

Each county field office is complemented by civilian support staff to assist in daily administrative functions and customer service.

These field offices are accessible to the public, giving citizens of the county/borough a local place to file court process in need of enforcement.

The BCI investigates city tax violation,[18] real property larceny/deed fraud,[19][20] synthetic narcotic enforcement (such as spice/K2 and bath salts)[21] and offenses against the Department of Finance.

[23] Special officers work as part of the team of sheriff's deputies and detectives and perform bailiff functions and protect the NYC Finance Administrative Hearings Tribunal.