law enforcement

Sheriff Joe Dasovich said he still expects Elias Harper to be charged in the incident. Deputy Michael Cowan was shot in the thigh during a scuffle and is expected to make a full recovery.

County Attorney Ben Lindstrom says Deputy Aaron Ammerman violated policy and engaged in "unbecoming conduct," but Ammerman says Lindstrom is tampering with the election.

Jordan Zempel, 35, of Apple Valley, faces a third-degree criminal sexual conduct charge for sexually assaulting a 17-year-old girl.

The Bureau of Criminal Apprehension found Deputy Michael Cowan did not discharge his weapon, according to the sheriff's office. The incident is now being called a "conflict case."

The Minnesota Department of Public Safety’s Bureau of Criminal Apprehension identified Virginia Police Lt. Henry Trunk as the officer who fired his department-issued firearm.

The deputy was shot in the thigh in Max and airlifted to a Duluth hospital. A convoy of law enforcement escorted him home Tuesday, May 5, 2026.

The deputy was shot May 4, 2026, on a call in Max, northwest of Deer River and east of S. Lake. The suspect is in custody, and the incident is under investigation.

Bemidji Police Officer Chad Museus retired April 16, 2026, after wearing a badge for more than 28 years.

Kelly Lake made the announcement April 8, 2026. She's been with the sheriff's office for nearly four decades, two of those as sheriff.

Pat Eliason will resign effective May 8, 2026, after 31 years of service in public safety to Cook County.