Paul Laney

The National Sheriffs’ Association announced that Paul D. Laney, Sheriff of Cass County, North Dakota has been selected as the recipient of the 2012 Ferris E. Lucas Award for Sheriff of the Year, recognizing his contributions to improve the Office of Sheriff on the local, state, and national levels. Prior to being elected Sheriff, Laney was a 17-year veteran of the Fargo Police Department, rising to the rank of Lieutenant, as well as the Commander of the Red River Valley SWAT team.

Now in his sixth year as Sheriff, Laney commands an agency of 140 full-time employees and about 40 volunteers. He holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Management from the University of Mary and also a Master’s Degree in Management with emphasis in Human Resources from the University of Mary. Laney is a veteran of the United States Marine Corps and currently serves as the President of the North Dakota Sheriff’s and Deputies Association. Additionally, he is an active member of the NSA, serving in its Drug Enforcement and Special Operations committees.