Career
Ben Zawacki is a seasoned law enforcement leader with more than two decades of dedicated service to the communities of Central Minnesota. A Becker High School graduate (’96), Ben began his public safety career early as one of the original Sherburne County Explorers when the program launched in 1995. He went on to graduate from the Alexandria Technical College Law Enforcement program, all while working as a Correctional Officer and Transport Officer with the Benton County Sheriff’s Office.
Ben first served the City of Becker as both a Reserve Officer and a Part-Time Police Officer before joining the Princeton Police Department in 2001. During his five years in Princeton, he was twice honored as Officer of the Year and received the Minnesota Chiefs of Police Association Meritorious Service Award for rescuing two individuals from a burning residence—recognition that reflects his courage, professionalism, and dedication to protecting others.
In 2006, Ben continued his service with the Sherburne County Sheriff’s Office as a Patrol Deputy and advanced through a wide range of critical assignments. He served as a Drug Task Force Investigator, where he played a key role in major narcotics investigations, and later as the Drug Task Force Supervisor, leading multi-agency enforcement efforts. Ben also served the community as the School Resource Officer at Big Lake High School, strengthening safety, mentorship, and engagement with students and staff.
As he progressed into leadership, Ben became a Patrol Sergeant and later an Investigative Sergeant, overseeing complex criminal investigations and guiding investigative strategies. His promotion to Investigative Captain expanded those responsibilities significantly, culminating in his completion of the Northwestern University School of Police Staff and Command—one of the nation’s premier law-enforcement leadership academies.
Ben has also been deeply involved in tactical operations, serving as an Emergency Response Unit operator before advancing to Assistant Team Leader and ultimately Team Leader, where he helped direct high-risk incidents and critical operations with precision and professionalism.
Today, Ben serves as the Commander of Operations for the Sherburne County Sheriff’s Office. In this role, he oversees daily operational functions and supports deputies and staff across all divisions, ensuring that the Sheriff’s Office continues to uphold the highest standards of service, accountability, and community trust.
Throughout his career, Ben Zawacki has earned a reputation for integrity, steady leadership, and a steadfast commitment to public safety. Rooted in strong hometown values and guided by extensive experience at every level of law enforcement, he continues to serve Sherburne County with pride, dedication, and a genuine commitment to the community he calls home.
