Here's why:
* Historical Context: The shire reeve was a high-ranking official in Anglo-Saxon England, responsible for maintaining law and order within a shire (county). They were appointed by the King and had broad powers to enforce justice, collect taxes, and manage the shire's affairs.
* Evolution: Over time, the role of the shire reeve evolved, but the core functions remained similar. By the Norman Conquest, the title became "Sheriff" and the office gained more judicial and administrative responsibilities.
* Modern Sheriff: Today, the Sheriff is an elected official in most US counties. They are primarily responsible for:
* Law enforcement: Leading the county's police department, investigating crimes, and making arrests.
* Court security: Maintaining order in courtrooms and transporting prisoners.
* Civil process: Serving legal documents, executing warrants, and managing county jails.
While the specific duties and responsibilities of a modern Sheriff may vary slightly from county to county, the fundamental principle of maintaining law and order within a defined geographical area remains the same, just like their historical counterparts.