Newly elected Brown County officials took the oath of office at a swearing-in ceremony in the Brown County Courthouse third floor courtroom Monday. Above: Brown County Sheriff Jason Seidl (left) takes the oath of office from Brown County District Court Judge Robert Docherty. Staff photo by Fritz Bush

BROWN COUNTY — After taking the oath of office and being sworn in as Brown County Sheriff Monday in the Brown County Courthouse main court room, former Brown County Sheriff’s Office Chief Deputy Jason Seidl reflected on his 25 years with the sheriff’s office.

“I am grateful for the teaching moments, experiences professional relationships and the many friendships,” Seidl posted on Facebook.

“Today was the oath of office ceremony for the Brown County Sheriff and other elected officials,” Seidl added. “I am beyond proud to continue to serve this county as your sheriff. Thank you and stay safe.”

Seidl takes over for Sheriff Rich Hoffmann who served as Brown County Sheriff for 12 years. Hoffmann served in law enforcement for 26 years including 12 years with New Ulm Police and two years as Morton police chief.

Brown County voters elected Seidl sheriff over New Ulm Police Department Senior Investigator Jeff Hohensee in the November General Election. Brown County Sherriff’s Deputies Jason Fairbairn and Matt Ibberson challenged Seidl and Hohensee in the August Primary Election.

Former New Ulm Police Sgt. Steve Depew was sworn in as Brown County Sheriff’s Office Chief Deputy Monday, filling an opening created when Seidl was elected sheriff.

Other Brown County elected officials taking oaths of office and being sworn in Monday were Brown County Attorney Chuck Hanson and Brown County Recorder Betti Kamolz.