In this episode of The Briefing Room, host Mike Wagers sits down with Hennepin County Sheriff Dawanna Witt for a candid conversation about what it takes to lead when public trust is fractured. Elected in 2022 and taking office in January 2023, Witt became the first woman and first person of color to serve as Hennepin County sheriff—but her path to law enforcement began from an unlikely place. Growing up distrustful of police and becoming a mother at 15, Witt never imagined she would one day lead one of Minnesota’s largest law enforcement agencies.
Witt shares how a jail tour changed the trajectory of her life and launched a career that would take her through roles overseeing Minnesota’s largest jail, court security during major trials, and some of the most challenging moments in the county’s recent history. She reflects on the aftermath of George Floyd’s murder, the lessons she learned about communication and perception, and the importance of defining your position clearly so you’re not constantly defending it.
The conversation also explores the challenges of Operation Metro Surge and immigration enforcement, the importance of representation and women in policing, and Witt’s efforts to create a culture where different perspectives are welcomed. She discusses innovative jail programming like HOPE, her commitment to reducing wasted time for people in custody, and why authenticity and staying grounded are essential to leadership.
Ultimately, Sheriff Witt offers a deeply personal perspective on rebuilding trust—not through slogans or promises, but through communication, representation, accountability, and showing up consistently for the people you serve.
Here’s What You’ll Hear
How growing up distrustful of police eventually led Witt to a career in law enforcement
The jail tour that changed the trajectory of her life
What becoming a mother at 15 taught her about resilience and leadership
Lessons from the George Floyd aftermath and major trials
Why perception and communication matter when public trust is at stake
Witt’s philosophy: “Define so you’re not defending”
Navigating Operation Metro Surge and immigration enforcement
Why representation matters in modern policing
The role women can play in changing law enforcement culture
How HOPE and other jail programs can turn wasted time into opportunity
Why authenticity matters when leading a large organization
Building an agency culture that welcomes different perspectives
What keeps Sheriff Witt grounded in her leadership
Timestamps
00:00 Welcome & Meet Sheriff Dawanna Witt
03:29 From Distrust to the Badge
08:07 Lessons From the George Floyd Trial
13:51 Perception, Trust & Social Media
18:24 Navigating Operation Metro Surge
21:51 Staying Grounded as Sheriff
24:06 Why Women Matter in Policing
29:14 Rethinking the Jail Experience
33:27 Pride, Family & Personal Roots
36:51 Leadership Lessons & Final Thoughts
