The chief of police shall be the keeper of the city jail, and shall have custody of all persons incarcerated therein. He shall keep such records and make such reports concerning the activities of his department as may be required by statute or by the city council. The chief shall be responsible for the performance by the police department of all its functions, and all persons who are members of the department shall serve subject to the orders of the chief of police. (1962 Code § 7.004)