Constable

Dictionary Definition

1. British, New Zealand A police officer ranking below sergeant in most British/New Zealand police forces. (See also chief constable).
2. Officer of a noble court in the middle ages, usually a senior army commander. (See also marshal).
3. U.S. Public officer, usually at the municipal level, responsible for maintaining order or serving writs and court orders.

n. a law officer for a particular area such as a rural township, much like a sheriff (who serves a county) and usually elected, who is responsible for such duties as serving summonses, complaints, subpoenas, and court orders, assisting the local court, as well as “keeping the peace.” In England, this was an exalted position as law enforcement chief for an extensive area, but in the United States, the office of constable is a dying breed, like Justice of the Peace.