Steele County Sheriff Lon Thiele Sworn in as President of the Minnesota Sheriffs’ Association
The Minnesota Sheriffs’ Association (MSA) proudly announces that during our recent winter conference, Sheriff Lon Thiele of Steele County was sworn in as its 2026 President. Sheriff Thiele steps into the role with decades of law enforcement experience and a deep commitment to public safety across Minnesota’s counties.
Sheriff Thiele’s leadership was formally recognized at the MSA installation ceremony, where he took the oath of office. He succeeds the outgoing MSA President, Martin County Sheriff Jeff Markquart, bringing his own vision for statewide collaboration and community engagement to the forefront of the Sheriffs’ Association’s mission.
“I am truly humbled and honored to serve as President of the Minnesota Sheriffs’ Association,” said Sheriff Thiele. “I am grateful to my family, colleagues, and the communities we collectively serve. Together, we will continue strengthening partnerships, enhancing public safety efforts, and supporting the dedicated men and women who protect our counties every day.”
Sheriff Thiele has served as Steele County Sheriff since 2010 and is widely respected for his leadership and long-standing commitment to law enforcement in southern Minnesota. Throughout his tenure, he has focused on advancing community partnerships, officer training, and strategies that enhance the effectiveness and fairness of county policing.
As President of the Minnesota Sheriffs’ Association, Sheriff Thiele will lead strategic initiatives that support sheriffs across the state through advocacy, training opportunities, policy development, and shared best practices. The MSA serves as a united voice for all of Minnesota’s 87 county sheriffs and their offices, fostering collaboration to better serve residents and protect communities
About the Minnesota Sheriffs’ Association
The Minnesota Sheriffs’ Association, established in 1885, is a nonprofit organization that supports county sheriffs through advocacy, professional development, and statewide initiatives to enhance public safety and justice services in Minnesota.
