AUSTIN, Minn. – An outside law firm hired to examine the conduct of Sheriff Steve Sandvik concluded there is no reason he can’t performs duties. In November the Mower County administrator, Trish Harren, told the sheriff to go home after a complaint that he smelled of alcohol. Harren now has issued a news release that quotes a legal conclusion that allegations of misconduct were unsubstantiated. During his absence, the news release said. Sandvik received medical treatment and has since been cleared medically to return to work.

Earlier: Sheriff exits after boozing but hangs on

Verbatim

Harren: “The county supports Sheriff Sandvik and his ongoing efforts to address this difficult but treatable medical condition.”