Raising the Bar - The Dakota County Sheriff's Office Podcast

Raising the Bar Ep. 5: What do we actually do? Myths vs. Realities

What really happens after an arrest? Are there quotas? Do police have to read Miranda rights every time? And how are crimes actually solved? In Episode 5 of Raising the Bar, Sheriff Joe Leko and Deputy Lee Smith tackle some of the biggest myths and misconceptions surrounding law enforcement. From what television gets wrong to the realities officers face every day, this candid conversation separates fact from fiction and provides an inside look at modern policing. Together, they discuss topics like police quotas, Miranda rights, investigations, and how crimes are actually solved, while also sharing stories and experiences from their own careers. It's an honest conversation about the profession, the public's perception of it, and the realities behind the badge.

Raising the Bar Ep. 4: What goes on behind the wall with Commander Gabriel

Commander Gabriel has seen a lot in 25 years with the Dakota County Sheriff’s Office. In this episode, we talk about his career, leadership, and the many responsibilities behind Detention Services, from daily operations to the people doing the work behind the scenes.

Raising the Bar Ep. 3: Hunting Fugitives: Inside the Apprehension Unit with Deputy Smith

Deputy Lee Smith, an apprehension deputy with the Dakota County Sheriff’s Office, joins the podcast to share his journey through law enforcement, including his experience at previous agencies and how those roles shaped his approach to the job today. He offers an inside look at the work of an apprehension deputy, breaking down the realities, challenges, and split-second decisions that come with locating and taking individuals into custody.

Raising the Bar Ep 2: A Career of Service: Chief Wilske

In this episode, Sheriff Joe Leko sits down with Hastings Police Chief David Wilske for a reflective conversation as he prepares to retire at the end of the month.Chief Wilske looks back on his time leading the Hastings Police Department, sharing insights from his career in law enforcement, the changes he’s seen in the community over the years, and the leadership lessons that shaped his time as chief. The conversation also highlights the strong partnership between the Hastings Police Department and the Dakota County Sheriff’s Office, and how collaboration between agencies plays a vital role in serving the community.It’s an opportunity to reflect on a career dedicated to public service and the relationships that make public safety work possible.

Raising the Bar Ep. 1: State of the Office with Sheriff Joe Leko

In our first episode, Sheriff Joe Leko joins the podcast to discuss his path into law enforcement and the experience that led him to serve as Sheriff of Dakota County. The conversation outlines the core responsibilities of the Sheriff’s Office, explains how those duties differ from local police departments, and provides an update on current priorities and the work being done each day to serve our communities. Follow us on social media or download our app to stay up to date: https://linktr.ee/dcsocomms