Dakota County Sheriff Tim Leslie

Dakota County Sheriff Tim Leslie will not seek another term in the post, he announced Friday afternoon.

Leslie says he plans to work part-time and spend time with grandkids, traveling, golfing and volunteering.

He’s held the position since 2015.

Leslie writes in the release that he encourages Chief Deputy Joe Leko to run for sheriff in the election this year. Leko is a 24-year department veteran.

Read Sheriff Leslie’s letter below:

“After considerable contemplation and reflection, I have decided that I will not seek a third term as Dakota County Sheriff. I am grateful for the opportunity that the citizens of Dakota County have afforded me. The work has been meaningful and being sheriff has been a tremendous honor.

I have had a great run, but as they say, all good things come to an end. I was fortunate my path led to the Dakota County Sheriff’s Office. The office is filled with high-quality people and a culture of service, tremendous pride for the history of the office, and the confidence to treat people the way they would want to be treated. 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. I am grateful to have had the opportunity to mentor, lead, and direct initiatives along the way.