The Transport/Court Security Deputy Sheriff ensures the protection of the citizens of Mille Lacs County by providing security and law enforcement services to the Mille Lacs County Courthouse and county office resources. Safely transports prisoners with security procedures appropriate to risk.
This position is covered under the LELS bargaining unit. For a complete position description, click here. Complete 2026 pay scale for this position is $29.95-$39.18/hr.
Our Transport/Court Security Deputy Sheriffs typically work Monday-Friday, 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. and 9:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. on a rotating basis, with occasional overtime-eligible after-hours assignments for inmate transports and jury trials as necessary.
This job description indicates the normal type and level of work expected of the incumbent. Incumbent may be asked to perform other duties as apparent or assigned.
1. Transports prisoners on writs or warrants from other counties, to and from Minnesota correctional facilities, from the jail, and from state and private hospitals for required court appearances; works closely with and cooperates with the jail staff to safely supervise inmate movement from the jail to the courts; transports juveniles to and from secure and non-secure facilities to court. Escorts defendants to the jail to be booked and released. Examples of trips include chemical and mental illness hearings. May also travel out-of-state to escort prisoners. Completes and submits required paperwork prior to and upon completion of transport.
2. Performs inspections and preparation of vehicles prior to transports and pat search of prisoners for transports. Prepares courtrooms and coordinates courtroom activities. Conducts a search of courtrooms and the Justice Center prior to court, looking for signs of tampering and/or suspicious packages, etc.; ensures that doors are secured. Provides security for the Mille Lacs County campus.
3. Sets up search operations to screen members of the public who seek admittance to the Justice Center; limits the number of spectators and media persons allowed in the courtrooms. Restricts cameras, cell phones, and other recording devices from entering the Justice Center. Prepares each courtroom by checking in people schedule to appear, as well as county attorneys, probation officers, defense attorneys, and social workers. Assists the public by directing them to the proper courtrooms. Takes extra security measures for multi-defendant or high-risk trials.
4. Maintains direct supervision of juveniles, prisoners, and other secured individuals while in transport or court. Stands by inmates during emergency hospital visits.
5. Adheres to all applicable safety policies and procedures. Assists in developing Court Security policies and procedures, including emergency plan guidelines for the Justice Center building and staff.
6. Maintains order and decorum in the courtroom. Ensures that litigants, attorneys, court staff, and spectators conduct themselves properly. Uses restraints in the courtroom on dangerous prisoners who are in custody, or witnesses, when appropriate. Provides security for judges, witnesses, attorneys, juries, grand juries, and the public. Performs duties involved with a jury trial, including 24-hour jury sequestration.
7. Performs duties associated with court orders requiring a licensed deputy to enforce the order at the courthouse, such as harassment restraining and domestic abuse no-contact orders (DANCOs) and orders for protection.
8. Carries out lawful orders and directions of the court. Places contraband into evidence and completes required reports. Administers preliminary breath tests for alcohol to defendants and probationers upon request of appropriate authority. Promptly submits required reports and forms.
9. Responds to and handles calls for service at the Justice Center; evacuates and secures the Justice Center in the event of bomb threats, fires, or other emergencies; assists in conducting building searches during bomb threats. Calls for appropriate response based on assessment of the situation.
10. Assists the Sheriff’s Office and other law enforcement officers, court bailiffs, and correctional officers as directed. Serves warrants, summonses, and other processes; makes arrests. Administers first aid, as the situation requires, until relieved by medical personnel. Conducts pre-employment investigations of employment candidates as directed.
Candidates will be selected based on a review of training and experience. Qualified candidates will be invited to participate in an oral interview.
Transport/Court Security Deputy Sheriff selection process:
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Initial screening/oral interview
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Averages 20-30 minutes
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In-person
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A second-round interview may be required
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Background check including a criminal history check
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Paperwork averages 1-5 hours to be completed accurately
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Must be completed within 7 days of when candidate receives packet (HR will notify candidate of due date)
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Background check process averages 2-4 weeks to be completed, once everything is turned in to the Mille Lacs County Sheriff's Office
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Pre-employment physical/medical examination (time varies)
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Psychological evaluation (time varies)
Interviews will be held approximately one day per week for the duration of this job posting. The entire hiring process typically averages between 45 and 60 days from beginning to end.
Upon job offer, candidates will be notified of their assigned shift and schedule.
