Earlier this year, the current Dakota County Sheriff, Tim Leslie made the decision to not run for re-election. With that announcement, opportunities for advancement became available. Joe Leko won the election for Sheriff in November and now, Sheriff-Elect Leko has selected his second in command.

According to a press release from the Dakota County Sheriff’s Office, Captain Dan Bianconi will be the next Chief Deputy.

Sheriff-Elect Joe Leko is pleased to announce that he has selected Dakota County Sheriff’s Office Captain Dan Bianconi to be appointed as Chief Deputy Sheriff effective January 2, 2023.

Captain Bianconi was hired as a deputy sheriff in 2001 and has held many duties and ranks in his 22-year tenure. In 2009, he was promoted to the rank of sergeant where he spent time in patrol, investigations, and commander of the Dakota County Drug Task Force. In 2014, he was promoted to captain with assignments in patrol, investigations, detention services, and administration. He holds a Masters’ Degree in Criminal Justice Leadership from Concordia University and is a 2021 graduate of Northwestern School of Police Staff and Command.

According to Sheriff-Elect Leko, “Dan is proven and has an outstanding reputation across law enforcement and the community. He brings strong leadership and has been instrumental in the development of our personnel and operations. I have the utmost confidence that Dan will continue to elevate our services and partnerships in his new role as Chief Deputy.”