C-Notes: May 15, 2026
Executive Director Report
The MCPA Legal Assistance Program (LAP) continues to be one of the most valuable benefits we offer to our Chiefs and Command Staff members. Since launching the program, LAP has already provided legal assistance to dozens of members across Minnesota who found themselves facing complaints, allegations, employment disputes, or other complex situations where experienced legal representation was essential.
Unfortunately, Chiefs and Command Staff can sometimes face unsubstantiated allegations, complaints, and criticism from members of their communities. When these situations arise, having access to experienced legal representation can make a significant difference. Through the LAP, we have already been able to assist members facing complex and difficult situations where legal guidance and support were needed.
The annual cost for coverage is just $150, making it a small investment for the peace of mind and protection the program provides. Last year, more than 130 members enrolled in the program, and we expect participation to continue to grow as awareness of the benefits increases.
Enrollment for the 2026–2027 coverage year is now open. Coverage runs annually from July 1 through June 30. Members who are currently enrolled have received renewal notices by email. If you are not currently enrolled and would like to participate, I strongly encourage you to consider signing up for this important protection.
To learn more about the Legal Assistance Program or to enroll, visit mnchiefs.org/lap.
Thank you,
Chief Jeff Potts (Ret.)
Executive Director
This week is an opportunity to express gratitude to those who serve with professionalism, courage, and commitment. Peace Officers Memorial Day on May 15 serves as a solemn reminder of the officers who gave their lives in service to others.
We extend our appreciation to all members of law enforcement and thank them for their service and dedication to keeping our communities strong and safe.
Legislative Session Update – May 10
The 2026 legislative session has officially concluded following an intense final week of negotiations, omnibus bills, and conference committee activity at the Capitol. During the closing days of session, lawmakers advanced several public safety measures and budget provisions important to MCPA members, including additional funding for the Philando Castile Memorial Training Fund and continued movement on key public safety legislation.
Cozen O’Connor is currently reviewing the final outcomes of session and will share a comprehensive legislative recap with members soon.
2026 Fall Leadership Summit
Registration is now open for the 2026 MCPA Fall Leadership Summit, taking place September 28–30 at Cragun’s Resort in Brainerd.
The Summit brings together Minnesota’s law enforcement leaders for a focused leadership retreat featuring professional development, peer collaboration, and discussions on the key challenges facing policing today. Designed to complement larger events like ETI, the Summit offers a more intimate setting for meaningful conversations and strategic leadership development.
Over the course of the two-and-a-half-day program, chiefs and command staff will participate in expert-led sessions, networking opportunities, and collaborative discussions aimed at strengthening leadership and advancing public safety across the state.
Additional details, including the full agenda and registration information, are available on the event page.
Special Update: State vs. Contreras-Sanches
On April 15, 2026, the Minnesota Supreme Court issued an opinion in State v. Contreras-Sanchez. The decision primarily addresses the legal questions of whether geofence warrants are permitted by the Minnesota Constitution, and the authority of peace officers to obtain additional information about devices identified by the warrant without seeking additional judicial review. The legality of geofence warrants is a new area of the law, and the Contreras-Sanchez case identifies the new the rules for Minnesota officers. The special update explains what geofence warrants are and how they’re used, and what limits the courts have placed on them in Minnesota.
You can find Special Updates in PATROL by going to 'Available Training', then selecting Policies / Resources.
Chief Tanya Schwartz Retirement
Minnesota Department of Public Safety Updates
Minnesota Department of Public Safety Updates
The Minnesota Department of Public Safety is sharing two updates relevant to law enforcement personnel:
Driver’s License Update
A recent change to UV ink used on Minnesota driver’s licenses and IDs may cause some cards to appear slightly different. Both old and new versions remain valid.
Minnesota Air Rescue Team (MART)
As calls involving lost or injured individuals increase this time of year, the Minnesota Air Rescue Team (MART) is available to assist with complex incidents in rural or hard-to-access areas.
- Free, statewide helicopter search and rescue
- Activation: request via dispatch — “Contact State Patrol and request the MN Air Rescue Team”
- 24/7 response with hoist rescue capabilities
- Early activation helps reduce response times
If you have any questions, please contact Jeremy Barta at jeremy.barta@ci.stpaul.mn.us or 612-518-5780.
Law Enforcement Volunteer Opportunity
Volunteers are needed to assist with residence hall access control during the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games, June 20–27 at the University of Minnesota and National Sports Center.
More than 4,500 athletes and coaches will be housed in UofM residence halls. Volunteers will help ensure only credentialed individuals assigned to each dorm are granted access. This role involves direct interaction with participants and supports a safe, positive experience.
Details:
- Shifts: 4:00–10:00 p.m.
- One volunteer per residence hall
- Open to current and past law enforcement
Volunteers must register before selecting shifts via a private link.
For questions, contact Mark Sitarz at msitarz@2026usagames.org or 612-518-8433.
MN Wild Hero of the Game - Submit a Nomination
The Axtell Group is proud to partner with the Minnesota Wild to recognize outstanding law enforcement professionals during home playoff games and to begin building a strong list of candidates for the 2026–2027 season.
Nominations are now being accepted for officers, deputies, and troopers who have made a meaningful impact, whether through recent actions or a career of dedicated service. All nominations will be shared with the Minnesota Wild as they select individuals to be recognized at select games.
During the regular season, there are a limited number of recognition opportunities, typically 12 to 15 games. While every nomination is valued, not all nominees will be selected.
Consider nominating someone from your agency who stands out, such as:
- Officer, Deputy, or Trooper of the Year recipients
- Life-saving award honorees
- Individuals with strong community connections
- Those who consistently make a difference behind the scenes
This program is a meaningful way to recognize their work and show appreciation for their service.
Each selected honoree will receive:
- Two tickets to a Minnesota Wild home game (based on availability, with the possibility of 1–2 additional tickets)
- Recognition on the scoreboard during a first-period break
- An opportunity for your agency to share their story on social media
NOBLE Region IV Training Conference
The Bloomington Police Department will host the National Organization of Black Law Enforcement Executives (NOBLE) Region IV Training Conference at the Radisson Blu Mall of America from June 5–7, 2026.
Hosted by the NOBLE Northstar Chapter, this regional conference brings together law enforcement professionals from across Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota, Iowa, Michigan, Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, and Wisconsin. The event will also celebrate NOBLE’s 50th anniversary.
The conference offers valuable training and networking opportunities with law enforcement executives from across the region. All are welcome to attend and learn more about NOBLE and its mission. The Northstar Chapter currently includes approximately 40 members.
If you have any questions, please contact Chief Booker T. Hodges.
MN Twins Law Enforcement Nights
MN Twins Law Enforcement Nights
The Minnesota Twins are partnering with the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund for two special Law Enforcement Night games at Target Field:
- Friday, July 24, 2026, at 7:10 p.m. vs. the Athletics
- Tuesday, August 18, 2026, at 6:40 p.m. vs. the Atlanta Braves
Tickets start at $26.75, with options available for law enforcement, corrections, family, friends, and the general public. For every ticket sold, $5 will be donated to NLEOMF.
Order online: Minnesota Twins Law Enforcement Night – National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund
For groups of 20 or more, contact Liz Pilarski at LizPilarski@twins.com or 612-659-3852.
MCPA Trainings
MCPA Executive Leadership College
The Minnesota Chiefs of Police Association is launching the MCPA Executive Leadership College, an intensive leadership and management program designed for current and aspiring chiefs, sheriffs, and command staff.
Comparable in scope to nationally recognized programs such as Northwestern’s Police Staff & Command School and the FBI National Academy, this series prepares experienced professionals for the demands of senior leadership.
Participants will earn a Certificate of Completion and receive 12 graduate-level credits from Metro State University, which may be applied toward a Master of Science in Criminal Justice & Public Safety Leadership.
Topics include strategic leadership, executive decision-making, community engagement, organizational psychology, communication, and data-driven policing. Instruction is delivered by experienced Minnesota law enforcement leaders.
Session Dates: November 2026 through April 2027
For questions, contact Stephanie Revering, MCPA Training and Operations Director.
Register for MCPA's Leadership Academy
Registration is open for MCPA’s 2026 Leadership Academies, an immersive 3.5-day training experience designed for middle management and first-line supervisors in law enforcement. The Academy helps participants make a confident transition from street officer to effective supervisor, covering essential topics such as complaint sorting and discipline, performance appraisals, leadership principles, and media relations.
Upcoming 2026 Sessions:
- May 18–21 — New Brighton
- Sept. 15–18 — New Brighton
- Dec. 7–11 — Camp Ripley
Sessions are taught by seasoned Minnesota leadership instructors and are limited to 30–40 attendees per session.
MCPA's NEW Advanced Leadership Academy
Join MCPA on September 9–10, 2026, in New Brighton for the Advanced Leadership Academy, a 1.5-day, POST-approved program designed to strengthen leadership skills for law enforcement supervisors.
Building on foundational supervision principles, the academy focuses on transformational leadership, team dynamics, conflict resolution, and strategic self-assessment.
This program is designed for middle management and first-line supervisors and supports participants in successfully transitioning from street officer to effective leader.
CLEO & Command Academy Update
The MCPA's CLEO & Command Academy brings together chiefs and command-level leaders from across Minnesota who are engaged in advanced leadership development, strategic thinking, and peer collaboration. As the 2026 session reaches its midpoint, the MCPA would like to share a brief update.
Participants have completed coursework focused on executive leadership, organizational culture, critical incident leadership, and contemporary challenges facing law enforcement executives. Instructors and facilitators have noted a high level of engagement, thoughtful discussion, and meaningful application of course content to real-world leadership challenges.
The MCPA appreciates its members' continued support for investing in leadership development for the profession.
For questions about the academy or other Center for Police Leadership training opportunities, please contact Stephanie Revering, MCPA Training & Operations Director.
Thank you for your continued commitment to professional excellence and leadership in Minnesota law enforcement.