Steffensen Appointed Grant County Sheriff; Owen Transitions to Administrative Role

Northeast Radio SD News - Milbank, SD - The Grant County Board of Commissioners took a decisive step in securing the future of county leadership Tuesday, appointing Jeremy Steffensen as the next Grant County Sheriff.

The appointment, made during the commission’s regular meeting on December 16, fills the upcoming vacancy created by the retirement of current Sheriff Kevin Owen. Steffensen will officially assume the role on January 1, 2026, serving out the remainder of Owen’s term.

Steffensen is a familiar face to Grant County residents, having served as a Deputy Sheriff for the department since August 12, 2013. His appointment follows years of experience in local law enforcement, providing a seamless transition for the office’s operations and staff.

Owen Moves to County Administration

The leadership shuffle comes as Sheriff Kevin Owen concludes a distinguished 15-year tenure as the county’s top law enforcement officer. Owen, who first took office in 2011 after serving with the South Dakota Highway Patrol, will not be leaving county service entirely.

Starting New Year’s Day, Owen will transition into his new role as County Administrator and Commissioner Assistant. He was selected from a competitive pool of nine applicants to succeed Karen Layher, the longtime administrator who is set to retire on March 30, 2025.

“I have appreciated the opportunity to serve Grant County and its citizens as their sheriff for the last 15 years,” Owen said. “I look forward to continuing to serve in a different capacity.”

Looking Ahead: The 2026 Election

While Steffensen has been appointed to lead the office for now, the position of Grant County Sheriff remains an elected one.