In medieval England, who was the official responsible for enforcing law within a region and a precursor to the sheriff?

• A. Shire-Reeve
• B. Hue and Cry
• C. Jury Nullification
• D. Mutual Pledge

Answer: (A)

Law enforcement in a medieval county was handled by a royal official known as the shire-reeve. This person acted as the king’s representative in the shire, responsible for keeping the peace, collecting taxes, and overseeing the administration of justice. The shire-reeve carried out writs, summoned the courts, and organized the local enforcement of law across the county. Over time, the term and role evolved into what we call the sheriff, but the essential duty—being the county-wide enforcer and administrator on behalf of the crown—begins with the shire-reeve. The other options describe tools or informal arrangements used in maintaining order (like raising a hue and cry, or mutual pledges within communities) or concepts not tied to an official who enforces law.