When I considered running for Sheriff four years ago, I reflected on what Dakota County would need in its next Sheriff: proven leadership during challenging times, extensive knowledge and experience, a deep personal connection to this community, and a trusted, compassionate leader for our residents and public safety partners.

I believe those qualities have helped drive the success of my first term. In a time of uncertainty, experienced, proven, and trusted public safety leadership matters.

Over my 29 years with the Dakota County Sheriff’s Office, I have been fortunate to gain extensive knowledge, experience, and leadership skills. I began my career in 1997 as a deputy and have served in courts, transport, patrol, as a school resource officer, drug and gang investigator, and water patrol deputy.

Promoted to sergeant in 2006, 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, transport, and the jail, eight years as Chief Deputy leading the operations of an agency with more than 200 employees; managing personnel, operations, and the budget, and serving you as your Sheriff since 2023.

Throughout my career, I have built strong, collaborative relationships with our federal, state, and local partners. Today, the Dakota County Sheriff’s Office is recognized as a model agency known for leadership, professionalism, innovation, and service. We will continue raising the bar through collaboration, accountability, and continuous improvement in everything we do.

Throughout his career, Sheriff Leko has established strong collaborative relationships with federal, state, and local partners. With 29 years of experience with the Dakota County Sheriff’s Office, he has gained a wealth of knowledge, wisdom, and leadership skills.

I am 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, and compassionate leadership. You have entrusted me with this great responsibility, and I will continue to give my very best to serve and protect the community we share.

Together, let’s continue keeping Dakota County safe, strong, and thriving for today and future generations.