Dakota County Sheriff Tim Leslie Will Not Seek A Third Term

HASTINGS, MN —Tim Leslie announced Friday that he will not be seeking a third term as the Dakota County sheriff. Leslie has served in that position since 2014.

In a letter announcing his decision, Leslie, who will serve through the end of the year, said he encouraged his Chief Deputy Joe Leko to enter the race to be his replacement.

On Monday, Leko, who has been with the sheriff's office since 1997, said he will be running in the Nov. 8 election for county sheriff.

Leslie said that after leaving the sheriff's position, he plans to work part-time and spend more time with his grandchildren, traveling, golfing and volunteering.

He spoke of the pride he felt in serving as the county sheriff.

"Next to being a spouse and father, being elected to serve the people as the sheriff of Dakota County has been my most significant endeavor," Leslie said. "I am grateful to have had the opportunity to mentor, lead and direct initiatives along the way."

Leslie also acknowledged that it had been a challenging time to be in law enforcement, especially in the Twin Cities metro area.

"I can admit that the last two years have been difficult for the profession," Leslie said. "Fortunately for us, the residents, business leaders and elected officials in Dakota County have been very supportive of our law enforcement community. From that support, we have persevered and worked diligently to keep those who live, work and visit Dakota County safe."

Leslie praised the "collaborative nature" among the 12 law enforcement agencies in the county, a dynamic that he said has been key in keeping the county safe.

"I will miss these relationships and frequent conversations with the women and men who serve as chiefs of police in the county," Leslie said.

Leslie also touted Leko's credentials to serve as his successor, saying the 24-year veteran of the sheriff's office has experience with all of the office's responsibilities.

"He is an expert at the administration of the office, has a tremendous reputation among the Dakota County law enforcement community and is an intelligent, forward-thinking leader dedicated to serving the residents of the county," Leslie said. "We would be fortunate to have him as our next sheriff."

On Monday, in his own release, Leko said he would be running to be Leslie's successor, and he unveiled his campaign website: JoeLekoForSheriff.com.

Leko spoke about his experience in the sheriff's office, which has included work as a deputy, school resource officer, drug and gang investigator, patrol supervisor and commander of the Dakota County Drug Task Force, before becoming chief deputy.

He also talked about the strong relationships he has built with federal, state and local partners.

"I am proud to serve the community that my family and I have lived in for over 50 years," Leko said. "The quality of service and safety we provide to county residents is very personal to me. Although we have work ahead of us, my hope is to continue to lead through the challenges that lie ahead. Because of these and other reasons, I am humbled and proud to officially announce my candidacy for the office of sheriff."