Who is designated as a conservator of the peace in each county?

The sheriff is designated as the conservator of the peace in each county. This role is rooted in the Texas Code of Criminal Procedure, which highlights the sheriff's responsibility for maintaining peace and order within the county. The sheriff possesses law enforcement authority and is responsible for implementing the law, making this position crucial for ensuring public safety and order.

The other options do not hold the same level of authority concerning the entire county. While the chief of police maintains order within a city jurisdiction, their authority does not extend beyond that city. The governor serves more at the state level and does not act as a conservator of peace within individual counties. A magistrate may handle specific legal matters and justice-related functions, but does not encompass the role of maintaining peace in the same broad sense as the sheriff. Thus, the sheriff's designated responsibility as the conservator of the peace is vital to understanding local law enforcement structures and their functions within the community.