Over the years, NIJO leadership has had the opportunity to work alongside many law enforcement officials and observe the qualities that allow some leaders to influence others in meaningful and lasting ways. True influence requires a sensible vision—seeing significant problems, gathering accurate and truthful information, listening carefully, and cutting through competing agendas to understand what matters most. It also requires a voice that carries far enough to be heard without becoming arrogant or overbearing, the ability to articulate a vision and goals simply, and the dedication to stay the course until that vision becomes reality.

This year’s O. Lane McCotter Executive Director Award was presented to Sheriff Brian Mueller of Pennington County, South Dakota, in recognition of the tremendous impact and far-reaching influence he has had—not only within his own agency, but throughout South Dakota and the surrounding states.

Sheriff Mueller has been a strong and consistent advocate for elevating corrections within the law enforcement profession. Through his service on various boards and his extensive involvement with WSSA, he continually brings attention to the importance of jails and the men and women who work in them. He regularly encourages fellow sheriffs to give corrections the attention, resources, and recognition it deserves, working to dispel the notion that detention is the “stepchild” or little brother of a sheriff’s office.

For Sheriff Mueller, that commitment goes well beyond words. He makes it a priority to walk through his jail regularly and personally thank the officers who work there. His support for corrections is intentional, consistent, and deeply rooted in his belief in the value of the profession.

Recognizing that South Dakota had no statewide standards for jails, Sheriff Mueller took action to help change that. He played a key role in bringing the NIJO Legal-Based Jail Guidelines to jails throughout the state, with the program funded entirely through the state’s risk pool. His leadership helped provide agencies across South Dakota with a consistent, legally based resource for improving jail operations.

Sheriff Mueller also recognized the unnecessary and costly requirements that had historically been included in ICE detention contracts. He volunteered to work with NIJO to bring the issue to the highest levels of Homeland Security and helped facilitate conversations that ultimately led to more reasonable and practical contract language. As a result, ICE contracts that had averaged approximately 254 pages were reduced to just five pages. For agencies that have seen their ICE contracts simplified and made more practical, Sheriff Mueller deserves part of the credit for recognizing the problem, bringing attention to it, and helping drive meaningful change.

Sheriff Mueller had hoped to be present to receive the award, but with the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally wrapping up in Pennington County, he knew where he needed to be—in his community, serving those he represents. That commitment is characteristic of Sheriff Mueller. He is not someone who seeks recognition or does things for a plaque on the wall. He simply sees what needs to be done and does it.

NIJO is honored to recognize Sheriff Brian Mueller for his leadership, dedication, and unwavering commitment to jails and corrections. His example serves as a reminder of the difference one leader can make when he is willing to see a problem, speak up, and stay committed to making things better.