EXPERIENCE AND LEADERSHIP
Meet Don
Experience You Can Trust
Leadership You Can Count On
Don Burrows has devoted nearly three decades to serving Wisconsin communities through professional law enforcement. He began his career in 1997 as a part-time officer in Clayton and quickly advanced through roles in Amery, Boyceville, and Somerset, gaining hands-on experience in patrol, investigations, and community engagement.
In 2007, Don joined the Polk County Sheriff’s Office as a Deputy Sheriff, where he served for 13 years, as a Patrol Deputy, Investigator, and Sergeant. His leadership and dedication earned him the position of Chief Deputy in 2020—a role in which he oversees patrol, corrections, communications, and administrative divisions, manages budgets, and develops policies that keep Polk County safe.
Beyond his local service, Don contributes to statewide law enforcement initiatives as a Director for the Wisconsin Sheriffs’ and Deputy Sheriffs’ Association and previously served on the Board of the Wisconsin Professional Police Association. He has also shared his expertise as an instructor at Wisconsin Indianhead Technical College, specializing in law enforcement subjects.
Don’s extensive education includes a Certified Public Manager designation from Wisconsin Command College, a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology, and advanced leadership training. His career reflects a commitment to integrity, accountability, and community safety—values he will continue to uphold as Sheriff.
More Than a Law Enforcement Leader—A Community Member
Outside of law enforcement, Don is deeply rooted in Polk County life. He and his wife, Mindy, raised two children here—both now thriving. Their son works for the City of Woodbury, and their daughter will graduate from Harvard in May. Don has long been active in youth programs, serving as a Cub Scout leader and later as Scoutmaster. He is also a lifelong advocate for conservation and outdoor heritage, serving as a founding supporter and active member of Standing Cedars Land Conservancy, dedicated to preserving natural spaces in the St. Croix River Valley.
Don’s life reflects the principles he’ll bring to the Sheriff’s Office: trust, integrity, and service. He knows that leadership starts at home and extends to every corner of Polk County.
Experience
Chief Deputy, Polk County, April 2020 – Present
As Chief Deputy, Don oversees patrol operations, corrections, and administrative divisions. He manages budgets, develops policies, and ensures resources are used effectively. Don represents the Sheriff’s Office at public meetings and leads initiatives to improve safety and transparency.
Director, Wisconsin Sheriff’s and Deputy Sheriff’s Association, September 2025 – Current
Don serves on the Board of Directors, providing education and resources to law enforcement officers and agencies across Wisconsin.
Deputy Sheriff, Polk County, April 2007 – April 2020
As a Patrol Sergeant and an Investigator, Don supervised deputies, managed the Evidence and Property Room, and served as Team Leader for the Emergency Response Unit. He conducted training sessions and handled critical incidents with professionalism and leadership.
Director, Wisconsin Professional Police Association, June 2018- May 2020
Don served on the Board of Directors, contributing to the Legislation Committee, Extended Legal Protection Plan Committee, and Special Olympics Committee, supporting both law enforcement and community initiatives.
Instructor, Wisconsin Indianhead Technical College, November 2010 – June 2016
Don taught law enforcement courses, specializing in Emergency Vehicle Operations and Vehicle Contacts, helping train the next generation of officers.
Police Officer, Somerset Police Department, March 2001 – April 2007
Don enforced laws, conducted investigations, managed evidence, wrote grants, and served as a Field Training Officer, mentoring new officers.
LTE Police Officer, University of Wisconsin-Stout, October 1999 – May 2004
Don enforced state laws and university policies, conducted investigations, and led crime prevention seminars.
LTE Police Officer, Boyceville Police Department, October 1999 – May 2001
Don enforced local ordinances and state laws, conducted investigations, and engaged in community relations.
Part-time Police Officer, Amery Police Department, May 1998 – May 2001
Don enforced city ordinances and state laws, conducted investigations, and built strong community connections.
LTE Police Officer, Clayton Police Department, June 1997 – April 2000
Don enforced local ordinances and state laws, conducted investigations, and served as Acting Chief of Police, overseeing budgeting and grant writing.
Licenses, Certificates,
& Training
Patrol Supervision: Skills, Tactics & Leadership
St. Paul Police Department, 2018
Vehicle Contacts Instructor
Wisconsin State Patrol, 2009
Pursuit Intervention Techniques Instructor
Northeast WI Technical College, 2008
Evidence Technician
Wisconsin State Patrol, 2005
Critical Incident Management Training
Wisconsin Indianhead College, 2002
Field Training Officer
Wisconsin Indianhead Technical College, 2002
EVOC Instructor
Wisconsin State Patrol, 1998
Basic Recruit – Law Enforcement
Chippewa Valley Technical College, 1997
Education
Wisconsin Command College / Certified Public Manager
University of Wisconsin, 2023
Leadership in Police Organization
University of Wisconsin-Platteville, 2006
First Line Supervisory Training
WI DOJ & UW Platteville, 2006
Bachelor of Arts Degree, Psychology
University of Wisconsin-Stout, 2000
Associate’s Degree of Applied Science, Police Science
Chippewa Valley Technical College, 1998
Memberships
Northwoods Technical College Criminal Justice Advisory Committee
September 2025 – Current
National Rifle Association (NRA) Member
2010 – Current
Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation Life Member
2010 – Current
Stand Cedars Land Conservancy
1995 – Current
Wisconsin Professional Police Association
January 2002 – May 2020
Contact Us
Have questions or want to learn more about Don’s vision for Polk County? Reach out today.