What responsibilities does the sheriff have?

The responsibility of the sheriff includes being in charge of the jail. This role encompasses the management and oversight of the county jail, ensuring the safe custody of inmates and the proper operation of the facility. Sheriffs are often responsible for staffing, security protocols, and the overall welfare of individuals held in their charge. This expectation aligns with the traditional role of a sheriff, who is a key law enforcement officer at the county level.

In contrast, managing state prisons, overseeing federal investigations, and directing local police departments fall under the purview of other entities or officials. State prisons are typically managed by the state’s Department of Corrections, federal investigations are handled by agencies like the FBI, and local police department management is typically the responsibility of a chief of police or similar authority. Thus, being in charge of the jail distinctly identifies the sheriff's role within the system of local law enforcement.