Governor Walz Opens Application Process to Select Department of Corrections Ombudsperson

Statement

Today, Governor Tim Walz announced an application process to select the Ombudsperson for Corrections to oversee the Office of the Ombuds for Corrections, which fields and investigates complaints about correctional facilities in Minnesota and provides policy recommendations to the Minnesota Department of Corrections (DOC) Commissioner. Ombudsperson Mark Haase, who re-started and led the office for the past two years, has accepted a position with the Ramsey County Attorney's Office and tendered his resignation, effective Jan. 5, 2022. Governor Walz will appoint Assistant Ombuds Margaret Zadra to serve as interim Ombudsperson during the application process.

"It's critical that we build accountability and transparency into our corrections system" said Governor Walz. "I look forward to partnering with leaders from across the state to find the next Ombudsperson to carry on Mr. Haase's good work toward achieving humane, safe, and secure correctional facilities in Minnesota."

"In order to build a more just and effective criminal justice system in Minnesota, we must ensure that everyone -- those who work in the corrections system, people who are incarcerated, and their families -- can be heard," said Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan. "We will look for a dedicated public servant with a proven track record as a passionate advocate for justice to step into this role."

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