The county sheriff is the chief law enforcement officer of the county, responsible for maintaining the peace and enforcing state criminal laws.
The sheriff must provide court security and is required to serve and execute processes, subpoenas, writs and orders as directed by the County and District courts.
The sheriff operates the county jail, and must maintain and feed prisoners.
The sheriff is also fire warden for prairie or forest fires in the county, and is also responsible for Search and Rescue.
Issuance and approval of concealed handgun permits.
Finally, the sheriff performs certain functions in connection civil process, including sales of real and personal property to satisfy debt or tax liens.