BEMIDJI 鈥� Beltrami County Sheriff Ernie Beitel announced Monday that he will not seek reelection in the 2022 election later this year.
Beitel made the announcement in a letter addressed to the citizens of Beltrami County on Feb. 14.
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"At the end of this year, I will be retiring after serving 38 years in law enforcement. Being your sheriff has been an extremely gratifying opportunity," Beitel wrote.
"I want to thank all of the Beltrami County citizens and our surrounding communities for supporting me and more importantly, supporting our law enforcement family. It has been an absolute honor to serve you.
"I want to thank all of the men and women of the Beltrami County Sheriff's Office for their hard work, determination and steadfast dedication to being the professionals they truly are.
"These past few years have been truly difficult for anyone working in law enforcement and I am truly humbled to have worked with all of these individuals.
"It is a testament to their character, integrity, honesty, and their commitment to serve. No matter what their role is, they are heroes.
"To the family members of our heroes that support them every day, I thank you. It is often forgotten that law enforcement are mothers, fathers, sisters, brothers, etc. The support family members provide is immeasurable.
"I want to thank my wife and family for sharing me with all of you. It takes someone very special to be a spouse of a law enforcement officer and I can't thank my wife, Colleen, enough for all of her help, understanding, wisdom and support.
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"I am very proud of what has been accomplished during my time as your elected Sheriff. I look forward to completing my term through the remainder of the year and continuing with the programs we have started.
"A safer, more efficient jail is at the top of that list and it is essential that the jail project continues to be made a priority.
"Like the sheriffs before me, it is fundamental for the next sheriff, and the sheriffs after that to continue the legacy of providing professional, progressive and innovative law enforcement services to our community. That is why I am encouraging Chief Deputy Jarrett Walton to run for Beltrami County Sheriff.
"He has been instrumental in our day-to-day operations as well as the strategic planning for our Sheriff's Office future. Jarrett is well respected around the state for his abilities, knowledge, experience and leadership.
"We need experienced and knowledgeable leaders in the law enforcement field and I believe Jarrett Walton would be that person."
