Cook County Sheriff announces resignation
In a March 9 press release, Cook County Sheriff Pat Eliasen announced that he would be stepping down from the role as of May 8.
Eliasen had previously announced his intention not to seek reelection this year and to retire from law enforcement after 30 years in the field. He told WTIP that the decision to leave the job earlier than originally planned was spurred by the chance to take on a new role.
Eliasen said he has accepted the director position for Grand Portage Headstart, adding, “I originally planned on sticking out the term, but you need to seize opportunities when they present themselves.”
According to the press release, Eliasen will remain in his current role for the next two months as the county navigates a leadership transition for the department. Eliasen told WTIP that the Cook County Board of Commissioners will appoint an interim sheriff to finish his term.
The county’s statement about his resignation touted the various grants he secured and public safety initiatives he spearheaded during his three terms as sheriff and 31 years with the county.
It read in part, “Among the accomplishments during his time as Sheriff were the development of cooperative initiatives with the Grand Portage Reservation, the establishment and strengthening of specialized public safety programs including marine patrol operations, and the recent implementation of a body-worn camera program to enhance transparency and accountability.”
Eliasen was quoted in the release saying, “It has been the honor of a lifetime to serve the people of Cook County. Public safety is built on trust, professionalism, and service. I am deeply grateful to the deputies, staff, and community partners who dedicate themselves every day to protecting this county.”
A new sheriff will be elected in November as part of the general election. At this time only Deputy Ty Backlund has announced his candidacy for the role. The official filing window for candidates will begin on May 19.
Kirsten Wisniewski March 9, 2026
