A shire reeve, commonly known as a sheriff, is an official in medieval England responsible for maintaining law and order in a specific area called a shire. The shire reeve acted as the king's representative, overseeing local governance, collecting taxes, and ensuring that justice was served. This role was crucial in managing the affairs of the community and enforcing the king's laws. Over time, the role of the shire reeve evolved, and the title of sheriff became more formalized. Today, sheriffs are typically elected officials in various countries, including the United States, where they oversee law enforcement in counties and manage local jails.