WASHBURN COUNTY (DrydenWire) -- Washburn County Sheriff Dennis Stuart will conclude a 25-year career in law enforcement, 8 years as sheriff, when his term ends, closing a chapter he says has been defined by service, trust, and a deep commitment to both his staff and the community.
Sheriff Stuart, who will be just shy of his 57th birthday on his final day in office, said his decision not to seek re-election in 2026 was guided by a personal goal he set long ago.
“I have had a goal to not work in law enforcement after the age of 57,” Stuart said. “I will be retiring from law enforcement, but I will find something to work a few days a week to keep my sanity.”
During his time as sheriff, Stuart oversaw several upgrades he considers among his proudest accomplishments, particularly those focused on safety and communication for first responders. He pointed to improvements to the county’s radio system, including the addition of new communication towers, which enhanced coverage and reliability across Washburn County.
“These upgrades made radio communication better for all first responders within the county,” he said.
Stuart also emphasized investments in protective equipment, including armor and specialized tools for deputies and the county’s Special Response Team, efforts he said were aimed squarely at keeping personnel safe in high-risk situations.
Not all challenges came easily. Stuart acknowledged that stepping into oversight of the county jail was a learning curve, as he had never previously worked in a jail environment. He said he relied heavily on education, collaboration, and guidance from jail leadership and the Department of Corrections, particularly as inmate classifications became more complex.
“I overcame this by educating myself with information from the jail captain and the Department of Corrections,” he said.
As a leader, Stuart described his philosophy as one rooted in openness and mutual respect. He said he made it a priority to encourage staff to bring ideas forward and maintained an open-door policy throughout his tenure.
“I believe a good leader is also a good follower,” Stuart said. “I’ve always been available for staff to stop in and communicate about anything on their minds.”
That accessibility, he said, extended beyond the walls of the Sheriff’s Office and into the broader community, where residents were always welcome to reach out directly.
Looking ahead, Stuart said he is committed to ensuring a smooth transition for the next sheriff. He plans to bring the newly elected sheriff on board following the general election and walk them through daily operations, including participation in the county budget cycle.
Stuart also confirmed he will be endorsing Investigator Jason Bartholomew, known as “Bart,” in the upcoming sheriff’s race.
When asked what qualities he believes are essential for the next sheriff, Stuart was clear and direct. He said the role demands someone who is non-political, committed to upholding the Constitution at all times, supportive of staff, willing to listen, and not inclined toward micromanagement.
“We enforce laws, not make them,” he said.
Reflecting on his legacy, Stuart said he hopes to be remembered as a sheriff who was honest, fair, and unwavering in his constitutional responsibilities. He added that, given the opportunity, he would not change his approach.
“I would do it the same all over again,” he said.
As he prepares to step away from law enforcement, Stuart said he is most looking forward to time with family, especially opportunities he missed while working long and unpredictable hours. One highlight he mentioned was being able to join his grandchildren on school field trips.
What he will miss most, however, are the people.
“The thing that I will miss the most when I leave law enforcement will be the people that I have worked with throughout the years,” Stuart said.
In reflecting on his career as a whole, Stuart expressed gratitude for the relationships built and the experiences shared.
“Looking back over the years, I am filled with gratitude and pride for the opportunities I’ve had to serve alongside some of the most dedicated and courageous individuals,” he said. “While I am excited about the future, leaving behind a career I am so passionate about is bittersweet.”
Stuart closed by thanking the citizens of Washburn County and his fellow law enforcement professionals for their trust and support.
“It has been a privilege and honor to serve in this community,” he said.
Last Update: Jan 14, 2026 10:22 am CST
