Responsibilities
The Steele County Attorney’s Office is responsible for prosecuting criminal offenses committed within the county, including felonies, gross misdemeanors, misdemeanors, and traffic cases. The Office also handles juvenile prosecutions and, in partnership with Steele County Community Corrections, administers diversion programs that allow youth to receive appropriate consequences for minor offenses without a formal court appearance.
In addition to county-level criminal prosecution, our office serves as the City Prosecutor for Owatonna, Ellendale, and Medford.
Other Areas of Responsibility
Criminal Prosecution
The County Attorney is the lead prosecutor and represents the State of Minnesota for all felony and gross misdemeanor offenses. The Steele County Attorney’s Office is also the misdemeanor and traffic prosecutor for all offenses in the townships and the cities of Owatonna, Medford, and Ellendale. All juvenile matters are prosecuted by the County Attorney.
Child Protection & Civil Commitments
The County Attorney’s Office initiates Child in Need of Protection or Services (CHIPS) petitions to safeguard children who are abused or neglected. We also pursue legal actions to protect vulnerable adults who may be at risk due to age, disability, or other circumstances. When necessary, the Office files involuntary commitment petitions to ensure individuals who are mentally ill or chemically dependent receive appropriate treatment.
Legal Counsel to the County
The County Attorney’s Office provides legal guidance to the Steele County Board of Commissioners, County Officials, and all County Departments. In this role, the Office functions similarly to in-house corporate counsel, offering legal advice and representation in civil matters to support the effective and lawful operation of county government.