In actions against sheriffs, deputy sheriffs and constables for breach of official duty where the principal defendant is out of the State, service may be made on such defendant by delivering a copy of the summons and of the complaint to each of the sureties on his official bond 14 days before the return day thereof, and the Superior Court may order further notice to the defendant by publication of an abstract of the complaint and order thereon in a newspaper of general circulation in the county where the complaint is returnable or in the state paper or in such other manner as the court directs. If the order is complied with and proved, the defendant shall answer to the action and judgment in such case has the same effect as if personal service was made upon the principal defendant.   [PL 1987, c. 667, §8 (AMD).]