Chief Deputy Leko Announces Run For Dakota County Sheriff

DAKOTA COUNTY, MN — After current Dakota County Sheriff Tim Leslie announced that he would not seek a third term, Chief Deputy Joe Leko announced that he is running for the position.

Leko said in a news release that during his 25 years in Dakota County Sheriff's Office, he has gained "a wealth of knowledge, wisdom and leadership skills."

Leko was hired as a deputy in Dakota County in 1997 and has worked as patrol officer, school resource officer, drug and gang investigator, patrol supervisor, captain in both patrol and the jail, commander of the Dakota County Drug Task Force and chief deputy, the news release said.

In his current position as chief deputy, Leko said he leads and manages 200 employees and a $25 million budget.

"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," he continued. "Please join me in our efforts to keep Dakota County a safe and thriving community for today and tomorrow."