Mayor Jacob Frey announced on Monday his nomination of Hennepin County Chief Judge Todd Barnette for the City’s next community safety commissioner. As the chief judge for Minnesota’s largest Judicial Court District, Barnette has deep local ties and more than 30 years of legal and management experience.
“Over the last three decades, Chief Judge Barnette has established himself as a leading voice in Minnesota’s public safety and criminal justice communities,” said Frey in a statement. “With his broad set of lived and professional experiences, he is uniquely situated to forge the partnerships necessary to continue building out a strong, comprehensive safety system and lead a team to keep Minneapolis safe.
“Judge Barnette is a rare talent, one that has deep connections in Minnesota, and I’m grateful he has agreed to serve as the next member of our administration’s cabinet.”
Barnette recently oversaw the transition from in-person to remote trial work and navigated the administration of justice during the COVID-19 pandemic. He has also represented the Fourth District Judiciary as an observer and participant in community and public safety around topics pertinent to the City of Minneapolis.
Barnette has worked as a judge, prosecutor, and public defender, presiding over thousands of cases, including several high-profile cases and numerous trials, remaining committed to justice and equality, and has helped to implement policies that align with the needs and values of residents.
“I know public safety is a top priority for Minneapolis and the residents who live here,” said Barnette. “I am dedicated to implementing effective strategies that address crime prevention, community policing, and the overall safety and well-being of Minneapolis residents and visitors.
“I am grateful for this opportunity and eager to work collaboratively with local, county, and state leaders to develop innovative solutions that promote safety and foster positive relationships between law enforcement, the city, and the community.”
In 2020, Barnette was the first person of color to be elected chief judge of Hennepin County District Court. Prior to that, he served the Court as the assistant chief judge and District Court judge and worked as an attorney for the Office of the Hennepin County Public Defender for more than a decade. Barnette received the Hennepin County Bar Association Professionalism Award in 2012 and the Hennepin County Champion of Change Award in 2004.
Barnette’s work extends beyond the courtroom. For more than a decade, he’s mentored aspiring young law professionals at the University of St. Thomas School of Law, and he’s worked as an adjunct professor at the university for the past five years. He received his B.A. from The George Washington University in Washington D.C., and his law degree from the University of Minnesota.
Upon city council approval, Barnette would lead and direct the City’s Office of Community Safety (OCS) into the next phase of Minneapolis’ safety work, including the management of five departments: Police, Fire, 911, Emergency Management, and Neighborhood Safety. He would also collaborate with local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies; and coordinate with external businesses and community leaders to address any emerging safety issues.
Lee Sheehy has served as interim community safety commissioner since early September following the retirement of Dr. Alexander, the City’s first commissioner.
The mayor’s nomination will be forwarded to the full city council for deliberation during its meeting on September 21. The community safety commissioner serves a four-year appointed term.
Support Black local news
Help amplify Black voices by donating to the MSR. Your contribution enables critical coverage of issues affecting the community and empowers authentic storytelling.
