länsmän

Länsmän is a Swedish term historically referring to a local law enforcement official, particularly in rural areas. The role was responsible for maintaining order, investigating minor offenses, and collecting taxes within a specific administrative district, often called a "länsman's district." These officials were typically appointed and held a position of authority within their community.

The function of the länsman evolved over time with changes in Swedish administrative and legal structures. In earlier periods, their duties could be quite broad, encompassing aspects of both law enforcement and local administration. As the modern police force and public administration systems developed, the traditional role of the länsman gradually diminished.

The term "länsman" is not actively used in contemporary Swedish law enforcement. The responsibilities once held by länsmän are now carried out by the modern Swedish Police Authority (Polisen) and other governmental agencies. While the specific title and its associated duties are part of historical Swedish legal and administrative systems, the concept of local law enforcement representatives persists in different forms. The legacy of the länsman can be seen as a precursor to the organized law enforcement structures that exist in Sweden today.