Peace officers like sheriffs are sworn to uphold the Constitution—but when they step outside their lawful authority, they act under "color of law." Even without bad intent, incompetence or poor training can lead to serious civil rights violations. Under 18 U.S.C. § 242, deprivation of rights—whether willful or through ignorance—is a federal crime. Ignorance of the law is no excuse, even for those sworn to enforce it.