Anoka County honors lieutenant who coordinated large multiagency search that recovered remains in Columbia Heights case

Commissioner Brastead introduced an item recognizing Anoka County Sheriff’s Office Lieutenant Jim Schilling for leadership in the joint investigation into the disappearance of 16‑year‑old Jordan Manny Collins Jr.

Brastead said the search represented the county’s largest law‑enforcement operation and invited Sheriff Weise to speak. Sheriff Weise read the nomination letter submitted to the Minnesota Sheriff’s Association, listing the scope and hardships of the operation: the Inoka (transcript)/Anoka County Sheriff’s Office joined Columbia Heights Police when early indicators suggested homicide, a large joint operation began June 6 and continued through July 18, and incomplete remains were located at a landfill on June 28. The letter credited Lieutenant Schilling with coordination of nearly 500 search personnel across more than 40 agencies and with managing the command post, logistics and morale in difficult conditions including high winds, extreme heat and unstable ground.

Sheriff Weise said the joint effort helped provide closure for the family and noted that Jordan Collins Sr. has been arrested and is charged with second‑degree murder; the trial date was set and is pending. Commissioners and members of the public thanked law enforcement for their work; the board’s remarks emphasized the scale of the operation and the role of volunteers and multiagency cooperation.

Ending: The board presented applause and formal congratulations; the item was informational recognition rather than a board action.