Overview
- Seventy-two of Minnesota’s 87 sheriffs backed a Dec. 8 no-confidence resolution and called for Corrections Commissioner Paul Schnell to step down.
- Sheriffs point to actions including a roughly 20% inmate reduction at the Hennepin County Jail in 2024 that they say cost $5.3 million, the reclassification of Otter Tail County’s jail to a 72-hour facility, and capacity limits affecting Ramsey and Beltrami.
- The conflict focuses on DOC enforcement of Rule 2911 jail standards, which sheriffs describe as inconsistent, burdensome, and disconnected from day-to-day operations.
- The Department of Corrections disputes the claims, saying inspection and enforcement decisions are rooted in law to prevent harm and reduce risk, and it faults a breakdown in cooperation with the association’s current leadership.
- Gov. Tim Walz’s office signaled confidence in Schnell, and his Senate confirmation has remained pending for nearly three years as at least one senator urges a vote when the Legislature reconvenes.