Overview
- The Minnesota Sheriffs’ Association said 72 of 87 sheriffs backed a Dec. 8 resolution urging Commissioner Paul Schnell to resign or be removed.
- The resolution accuses the DOC and its Inspection and Enforcement Unit of unilateral, inconsistent enforcement of Rule 2911, including cutting jail capacities, reclassifying Otter Tail County’s jail to a 72-hour facility, and driving up boarding costs.
- Sheriffs cite a 2024 DOC order that cut Hennepin County Jail’s population by nearly 20%, which they say led to $5.3 million in inmate boarding expenses.
- The DOC rejects the allegations as unfounded, saying actions are lawful, documented, and intended to prevent harm after serious deficiencies, and it blames current MSA leadership for a breakdown in collaboration.
- Schnell remains in office as the association has considered legal action, and his long-pending Senate confirmation has prompted at least one lawmaker to call for a vote when the Legislature returns.