When I considered running for Sheriff four years ago, I reflected on what our next Dakota County Sheriff would need to be successful: a proven leader during challenging times; someone with extensive knowledge and experience; a deep personal connection to Dakota County; and a trusted, compassionate leader for both the community and our partners. I believe those qualities have driven our success in my first term. We will continue to leverage them as we raise our profile and strive for excellence in all that we do while serving our wonderful community. In a time of uncertainty, it is critical to have experienced, proven, and trusted public safety leadership.

Over my 28 years with the Dakota County Sheriff’s Office, I’ve been fortunate to gain a wealth of knowledge, wisdom, and leadership experience. I began my career in 1997 as a deputy and have served in courts, patrol, as a school resource officer, drug and gang investigator, and water patrol. My 20 year leadership journey has included five years as a sergeant in patrol and the Drug Task Force, four years as a captain overseeing patrol, courts, and the jail, eight years as Chief Deputy leading 200 employees and managing a $25 million budget, and the past three years as your Sheriff.

Throughout my career, I’ve built strong, collaborative relationships with our federal, state, and local partners. The Dakota County Sheriff’s Office has become a model agency that others look to for leadership, professionalism, and innovation. We continue to raise our profile through a commitment to collaboration and continuous improvement in all that we do.

I’m proud to serve the community my family and I have called home for more than 50 years. The quality of service and safety we provide to our residents is deeply personal to me. While there is always work ahead, I remain steadfast in my commitment to provide strong, courageous leadership. You have entrusted me with this great responsibility — and I will continue to give my all to serve and protect the community we share. Together, let’s continue to keep Dakota County a safe and thriving place for today and our future generations.