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Sheriff presents 2025 year-end numbers; commissioners approve vehicle transfer and evidence-tracking software
Summary
Sheriff's department reported slight increases in calls and arrests for 2025, declines in DUI and traffic citations, and the commission approved a 2020 Durango transfer to Lake Region Ambulance and purchase of a PMI evidence-tracking system.
The Ramsey County sheriff's department delivered a year-end report showing a modest rise in calls for service and arrests, and the commission approved two departmental requests: transfer of a 2020 Dodge Durango to the Lake Region ambulance service and the purchase of an evidence-tracking system.
Sheriff staff said total calls rose slightly from 8,781 in 2024 to 8,954 in 2025 and arrests increased from 83 to 126, while DUI arrests and several traffic citations declined (DUIs from 65 to 42; speeding citations from 697 to 468). The sheriff noted increased emphasis on visibility and community patrols as possible drivers of the reductions.
On procurement, commissioners approved transfer of an out-of-service 2020 Dodge Durango to Lake Region Ambulance for use as a community paramedic vehicle. Sean of the ambulance service described the community paramedic program, saying in part that telehealth visits can substitute for some client travel and that "it's about $50 per visit." The motion to transfer ownership passed on roll call with unanimous 'aye' votes recorded in the transcript.
The sheriff also recommended buying an evidence-tracking system from Progressive Micro Technology, Inc. (PMI). The recommended PMI option has a one-time hardware/software cost (transcript front-page total about $7,245) with optional tech support ($795/yr). Commissioners discussed first-year service, field use, and whether the police department would share the system; the sheriff clarified it would be set up specifically for the sheriff's office. The commission moved and approved ordering the PMI system.
The sheriff emphasized the operational benefits: barcoded evidence labels, chain-of-custody history, reminders for retention periods and court returns, and simplified field logging to reduce evidentiary risk. Sheriff staff said the department budgeted about $8,000 for technology to cover the purchase.
Next steps: transfer paperwork will proceed for the Durango; sheriff staff will order PMI and coordinate setup and training with deputies.
