Hennepin County Sheriff’s Office is poised for a major reorganization, announced by Sheriff Dawanna Witt, as detailed in a bulletin released on June 27th. The changes, which come into effect in mid-July, will see a shuffle within the command staff and the creation of an additional bureau to improve the operational aspects of the county’s detention facilities.
Starting July 14th, Public Affairs, Court and Field Services, and the Detention Services Bureaus will be helmed by new leaders. A noteworthy change comes with the institution of a separate Detention Services Bureau, carving out an exclusive focus on the Hennepin County Jail, arguably the largest bureau within the agency. According to Sheriff Witt, the move is designed to "prioritize and refine our largest division, the jail" and underscores the department’s dedication to delivering "the highest-quality care and resources to the people under our supervision."
The restructuring includes the promotion of four key figures. Chief Deputy Pat Enderlein, assuming his permanent role come September, brings more than 24 years of experience to his new position. Sheriff Witt recognized Enderlein, among others, for bringing a "wealth of knowledge and experience to their new positions within the Hennepin County Sheriff’s Office." Jail Administrator Troy Otto, with a history dating back to 1999 within the facility, will oversee the newly minted Detention Services Bureau.
Alongside the Detention Services Bureau's formation, the Court and Field Services Bureau will absorb several functions previously under the Public Safety Services Division, with Major Mike Jerde at the helm. Additionally, Major Kristen Tomlinson is set to steer the Public Affairs Bureau, a division created last year and composed of Community Outreach and Public Affairs, among others. Sheriff Witt lauded the incoming team, as well as Major Dan Kurtz, Major Shane Magnuson, and Major Rick Palaia, who all are retaining their current responsibilities.
The transition is bittersweet for the HCSO family, as it bids farewell to Chief Deputy Tracey Martin and Major Mary Jerde. Sheriff Witt expressed gratitude for the retiring leaders' "exemplary" contributions, asserting that they "have earned their retirements having dedicated decades to serving this community." Chief Deputy Martin and Major Jerde will depart on August 31 and July 31, respectively, marking the end of long and distinguished tenures at the agency.
