WASHBURN COUNTY, WI — Interim Sheriff Bernard Brunkow was officially sworn into office this week following his appointment by Gov. Tony Evers to complete the remainder of former Sheriff Dennis Stuart's term, according to a press release from Washburn County.
PRESS RELEASE
On July 13, 2026, Washburn County Circuit Court Judge Winton-Roe administered the oath of office to Bernard Brunkow, officially swearing him in as the Interim Washburn County Sheriff. Brunkow was appointed to complete the remainder of former Sheriff Dennis Stuart’s term following Stuart’s retirement in June by Governor Tony Evers.
Brunkow will serve as Interim Sheriff until the newly elected sheriff takes office. The sheriff will be elected in November and sworn in on January 4, 2027.
Related: Washburn County Hires New Zoning Administrator Following Dennis Stuart's Resignation
As required by Wisconsin law, when a new sheriff is appointed or elected and takes the oath of office, all sheriff’s deputies, including jailers and dispatchers, must also be sworn in under the authority of the new sheriff.
Following Sheriff Brunkow’s swearing-in, all appointees by the new sheriff were also administered the oath by Honorable Winton-Roe and Clerk of Court Shannon Anderson, ensuring the Sheriff’s Office continues to operate without interruption under the new administration.
Photos courtesy of Washburn County
Last Update: Jul 16, 2026 1:27 pm CDT
