The major executives of the Department are the Sheriff, the Undersheriff, the Assistant Sheriff(s) and the Division Chiefs. In the absence of the Sheriff, the Undersheriff or designated Assistant Sheriff shall assume command of the Department. In the absence of the Sheriff, Undersheriff, and designated Assistant Sheriff, the Assistant Sheriff(s), followed by the Patrol Division Chiefs, will assume command and responsibility for Department operations. Command authority for the Assistant Sheriff(s) and Patrol Division Chiefs shall be by seniority in grade.