Described as the "smallest of all nations," Ascension is a Dependency of Saint Helena, a sovereignty of the British Crown. It is also described as "one of the friendliest police beats in world." The police force has only six officers, including four constables, a Sergeant, and an Inspector, to police a population of just over a thousand men, women and children. There is very little crime here. There is no indigenous population, no unemployment, and no real poverty. The law is a mixture of Ascension Ordinances, St Helena Ordinances, and English law, all adapted to suit the local circumstances. Major offenses reported are traffic offenses, failure to renew licenses, drinking and driving, and an occasional theft or assault. Police, likened to the "Village Bobby," often engage in non-law enforcement duties such as tranquilizing wild donkeys and rescuing stranded Green Turtles. There is a small courthouse attached to the Police Office. The police Inspector assumes the role of Public Prosecutor, and defendants are typically represented by a lay representative. Two Justices of the Peace, sitting with the Island's Chief Magistrate, also the Island's Administrator, hear cases. The Circuit Judge, passing through on his way to Saint Helena, hears appeals and/or serious cases.