Which of the following is classified as a peace officer?

A sheriff or deputy sheriff is classified as a peace officer because they are sworn law enforcement officials who have the authority to enforce laws, maintain public order, and protect the rights of individuals within their jurisdiction. This classification is rooted in the legal framework that describes peace officers as individuals who have received specific training and have been granted legal powers to carry out law enforcement duties. Sheriffs and their deputies are responsible for a variety of law enforcement functions, including responding to emergencies, making arrests, conducting investigations, and engaging with community members to promote safety.

In contrast, while fire chiefs and school resource officers play important roles in public safety, their primary responsibilities do not include law enforcement duties in the same capacity as a sheriff or deputy sheriff. A city mayor, while a vital elected official, does not serve in a law enforcement capacity and therefore does not fall under the classification of a peace officer.