The Transport/Court Security Deputy Sheriff ensures the protection of the citizens of Mille Lacs County by providing law enforcement services. Duties include protecting life and property, preventing crime, apprehending criminals and enforcing laws, rules, and regulations in Mille Lacs County. The incumbent safely transports prisoners with security procedures appropriate to risk, and provides court security.
This position is covered under the LELS bargaining unit. For a complete position description, click here. Complete 2024 pay scale for this position is $26.06-$34.79/hr.

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 required paperwork prior to transporting prisoners.
 
2. 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. 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.
 
3. Maintains direct supervision of juveniles, prisoners, and other secured individuals at all times. Stands by with inmates during emergency hospital visits. Inspects the transport vehicle prior to transports; searches the prisoner compartment of the transport vehicle both prior to and after the prisoner is transported, and documents inspections. Conducts a thorough pat search of the prisoner prior to placing restraints on the prisoner.
 
4. Adheres to all applicable safety policies and procedures.
 
5. Maintains order and decorum in the courtroom. Ensures that litigants, attorneys, court staff, and spectators conduct themselves properly. Enforces laws and arrests violators. Remains alert and ready at all times to control unusual or unexpected situations in and around the courtrooms. 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.
 
6. 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 no-contact orders 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 when requested by a judge. Promptly submits required reports and forms.
 
9. Patrols and provides security for the Mille Lacs County Justice Center and parking lot.
 
10. 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.
 
11. 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.
 
12. Assists with emergencies or natural disasters, including those that occur away from County offices.
 
13. Administers first aid, as the situation requires, until relieved by medical personnel.
 
14. Maintains and arranges for service, upkeep, and repair of vehicles in the transport fleet.
 
15. Assists the Lieutenant in operations of the unit. Assists in developing Court Security policies and procedures, including emergency plan guidelines for the Justice Center building and staff; assists in developing methodologies for assessing the effectiveness of security operations, methods, and training programs; seeks out budget and operational efficiencies and makes recommendations to the Lieutenant; serves as a member of various committees addressing court security issues and building needs as requested; attends departmental meetings and trainings as directed; provides assistance to trainees as needed.
 
16. Performs other job-related duties as assigned or apparent.

The job requires eligibility for licensing by the Minnesota Peace Officers Standards and Training Board (P.O.S.T.). Eligibility is usually based on two years of post secondary education with a law enforcement focus; or an equivalent level of education and experience. A valid driver's license is required. Candidates must have or be able to obtain a First Responder Certification within six months of hire.

Deputies are required to complete and pass a pre-employment physical, physical agility testing, psychological examination, and a criminal history background check, and all required periodic on-going examinations of the same. License holders are required to earn 48 CLE credits every three years to maintain P.O.S.T. License.