WINONA Minn — Winona County Sheriff Ron Ganrude announced his support for John Hazelton to succeed him as sheriff. Ganrude, who is retiring, cited Hazelton for “leadership, integrity, and deep commitment to public safety.” Hazelton, age 48, has been in law enforcement 25 years and led the sheriff’s emergency tactical-response team. He has pledged to continue Ganrude’s transparency policies and daily news briefings for public accountability. On the ballot he faces fellow deputy Charles Rolbiecki, also a veteran with the sheriff’s department. Hazelton said that he and Rolbiecki have a good relationship. Win or lose, Hazelton said, he was confident they would continue working well together. The sheriff’s staff has 76 employees and includes the county jail and water patrols on the Mississippi River. The position pays $178,000.
Hazelton. One of his campaign yard signs now in Sheriff Ron Ganrude’s front lawn in St. Charles.