Don Burrows Announces Intentions to Run for Sheriff

Don Burrows, a lifelong Polk County resident with 28 years of dedicated law enforcement service, is proud to announce his candidacy for Polk County Sheriff. From his roots in Osceola to his current role as Chief Deputy, Don has built a career grounded in integrity, leadership, and a commitment to community. With experience ranging from patrol and investigations to training, administration, and emergency management, he is prepared to lead the Sheriff’s Office with the same steadiness, transparency, and service‑first mindset that have defined his career.

Don Burrows graduated from Osceola High School in 1995 before attending law enforcement training at Chippewa Valley Technical College, where he earned an Associate’s degree in Police Science. He continued his education at UW–Stout, graduating with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology. While in college, Don worked part-time for several area police departments and served as a UW–Stout University Police Officer. After graduating, he began his career with the Somerset Police Department, working as a Field Training Officer and as the department’s Evidence Technician.

In 2007, Don joined the Polk County Sheriff’s Office. Over the past 18 years, he has taken on numerous leadership roles, including Field Training Officer, Union President, Union Treasurer, Investigator, and Patrol Sergeant. He currently serves as Chief Deputy and oversees Patrol, Corrections, Communications, Administration, and Emergency Management.

Don has completed multiple leadership programs, including First Line Leadership, Leadership in Police Organizations, and Command College, where he became a Certified Public Manager through the University of Wisconsin–Madison. He has also served on the boards of the Wisconsin Professional Police Association and the Wisconsin Sheriffs and Deputy Sheriffs Association.

Don and his wife of nearly 25 years, Mindy, have raised two children who are now adults. Their son, Sean, works for the City of Woodbury, and their daughter, Hannah, will be graduating from Harvard this May.

Don also values community involvement. He has volunteered with local Scouting programs as both a Cub Scout and Boy Scout leader and continues to support Standing Cedars Conservancy.

He strives to leave things better than he found them; a principle reflected in his work ethic and the projects he has contributed to throughout his career. Don will continue to lead the sheriff’s office with honesty and integrity.

DonBurrowsforSheriff.com