Final answer:
The predecessor of today's sheriff tasked with governing a shire was the Reeve, who was responsible for law enforcement and administration on the king's behalf.
Step-by-step explanation:
The predecessor of today’s sheriff and the official in charge of a shire was the Reeve. In historical context, a shire was an administrative division of land, similar to a county, and the Reeve was responsible for overseeing the shire on behalf of the king. This role existed in England before the Norman Conquest and the term 'sheriff' is derived from 'shire reeve'.
While the title and specific duties have evolved over time, the concept of a local official responsible for law enforcement, tax collection, and administrative duties has been a long-standing feature of local governance. The county infrastructure, including law enforcement, public works, and county courts, has historical roots dating back to the roles held by Reeves and their progression into what we recognize as sheriffs today.