Matt Bostrom was elected as the 21st Sheriff of Ramsey County on November 2, 2010, and took the oath of office on January 4, 2011. He was re-elected on November 4, 2014 and is currently serving a second term.
Matt sought the Office of Sheriff based upon a vision for law enforcement and public safety that encompasses the following:
- Providing safety through community policing
- Restoring trust through fiscal responsibility
- Collaborating with local law enforcement
- Encouraging diversity to reflect the community
- Improving service through technology
- Connecting with youth to build for the future
Matt Bostrom served nearly 29 years at the Saint Paul Police Department with service as Police Officer, Sergeant, Lieutenant, Commander, Senior Commander, Chief of Staff, Assistant Chief of Operations, and Assistant Chief of Homeland Security and Support Services. As Sheriff, he has established mission statements for each unit within the department, developed a policy manual based on national best practices, created a comprehensive employee performance review and recognition process, and expanded the Blueprint for Public Safety. He currently serves as the chair of the Ramsey County Criminal Justice Coordinating Council. He is also a member of the National Sheriffs’ Association’s NSI, Education & Training Committee, Minnesota Sheriffs’ Association’s Training Committee, and the State of Minnesota’s Violent Crime Coordinating Council.
Matt’s formal education was accomplished at the University of Northwestern (Bachelor of Science), University of St. Thomas (Master of Arts), and Hamline University, where he received his Doctorate in Public Administration.
He is an FBI National Academy Graduate, Certified State of Minnesota Emergency Manager and a Licensed Teacher. He published The Influence of Education on Police Officer Work Habits and co-authored the United States Department of Justice study Character-Based Police Officer Selection. In addition, Matt is an Adjunct Professor at Saint Mary’s University, Northwestern College, and Metropolitan State University.
A native of Saint Paul, Matt grew up near Lake Phalen and graduated from Johnson High School. He is currently living in Saint Paul with Cheryl, his wife of 33 years. Together they have three adult children.
