Ben Zawacki, a 19-year veteran of the Sherburne County Sheriff’s Office and current Commander of Operations, announced today (Jan. 27) that he is running for Sherburne County 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 was hired in Sherburne County as a Patrol Deputy and has risen through several promotions, spending the past three years overseeing all operational functions of the Sheriff’s Office, working closely with Sheriff Brott and department leadership. 

A 1996 graduate of Becker High School, Zawacki and his wife, Amanda, are the parents of twin daughters, Mya and Macy. 

“This community has shaped my career and my commitment to public service,” Zawacki said. “Serving and protecting the people of Sherburne County has been my life’s work. With the training, experience, and dedication I’ve developed over the past two decades, I am ready to lead the Sheriff’s Office forward and continue earning the trust of the community.” 

Brott endorsed Zawacki as his successor, citing Zawacki ‘s leadership, integrity, and deep experience within the Sheriff’s Office. Brott announced last week that he will retire at the end of his current term after 18 years as Sheriff. 

“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 began his law enforcement career after graduating from the Alexandria Technical College Law Enforcement Program in 2000. He served 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 has served in a wide range of roles, including Patrol Deputy, School Resource Officer, Drug Task Force Investigator and Supervisor, Investigative Sergeant, Patrol Sergeant, Emergency Response Unit Team Leader, Investigative Captain, and most recently, Commander of Operations. 

Zawacki said he looks forward to meeting with residents across the county throughout the campaign and earning their support in the 2026 election.