MADISON - Monday, Kalvin Barrett was sworn in as the new Dane County Sheriff, the first Black man to serve in this role. In a ceremony at the Dane County Courthouse, Sheriff Barrett officially assumed his responsibilities and spoke of his priorities for the role and the department.

Senator Melissa Agard (D-Madison) released the following statement on Sheriff Barrett:

“Congratulations to our new Dane County Sheriff Kalvin Barrett! His appointment to the role is historic and his vision for the Dane County Sheriff’s department will create positive change across Dane County.

“Sheriff Barrett spoke about many things that matter to the 16th Senate District, including: creating a department that values diversity, building trust within communities, keeping the jail population low through evidence based-programs and jail-diversion programs, as well as creating opportunities for community engagement.

Sheriff Barrett spoke of repairing fractured relationships and building upon relationships already formed.  “Sheriff Barrett will continue to be a progressive voice in our law enforcement community as former Sheriff Mahoney did. I wish Sheriff Barrett the best of luck in this new role and look forward to his continued  leadership across Dane County.”