Ben Zawacki Announces Candidacy for Sherburne County Sheriff

(KNSI) — Ben Zawacki, a 19-year veteran of the Sherburne County Sheriff’s Office, announced he’s running for sheriff in the 2026 election.

“I am honored to announce my candidacy for Sherburne County Sheriff,” Zawacki said. “Every position I’ve held has prepared me to lead this department. Sheriff [Joel] Brott’s leadership has built a strong foundation, and I am committed to continuing that work with integrity, transparency, and accountability.”

Zawacki started with Sherburne County as a patrol deputy and has risen through several promotions. He’s spent the past three years overseeing all operational functions of the Sheriff’s Office and currently serves as Commander of Operations.

Sheriff Joel Brott, who announced last week that he will retire at the end of his current term after 18 years, wholeheartedly backs Zawacki’s campaign. “Ben Zawacki is the right leader to continue serving Sherburne County,” Brott said. “He understands this department, this community, and the responsibility that comes with the badge. I trust him to lead with professionalism, accountability, and a commitment to public safety.”

Zawacki graduated from the Law Enforcement Program at Alexandria Technical College in 2000. He worked part-time with the Becker Police Department before joining the Princeton Police Department full-time in 2001. In 2006, he joined the Sherburne County Sheriff’s Office, where he’s held roles including Patrol Deputy, School Resource Officer, Drug Task Force Investigator, Patrol Sergeant, Emergency Response Unit Team Leader, and Investigative Captain.

He is a 1996 graduate of Becker High School. He and his wife, Amanda, have twin daughters, Mya and Macy.

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