The Erie County Sheriff's Office is Erie County's oldest law enforcement agency. The Office of the Sheriff is the oldest office under the system of common law in the United States and is an integral part of government in the State of New York. As the oldest constitutional law enforcement officer of the county, the Sheriff is charged with maintaining the peace in all municipalities, villages, and towns within his jurisdiction and the care and custody of persons pending court action. The Sheriff also serves as the Chief Executive Officer of the Courts.