Sheriff Barry Hillestad began his law enforcement career in 1997 when he was hired as Police Chief in Waubay, SD where he served for just over 4 years. He then went to work as a Deputy Sheriff in Day County, becoming Chief Deputy, and then being elected Sheriff and taking office in January 2007. A staff of 3 full-time Deputies, 2 part-time Special Deputies, and an administrative secretary supports Barry’s efforts to make Day County a safe and secure place for all its residents. The Day County Detention Center is staffed by 7 additional employees. Barry is an avid hunter and member of Ducks Unlimited and Pheasants Forever. He is also a charter member of Lake Area F.O.P. Lodge #13 which encompasses Day, Marshall, and Roberts Counties.

“Serving the citizens of Day County continues to be a measure of great pride for me. But it is not by my efforts alone… each member of my staff plays a key and crucial role to the overall safety and security of our residents. When you meet one of them on the street, or in a local business, thank them for all that they do, everyday, for those who live, work, and visit in Day County.”

Barry Hillestad

Across this State is a group of people,
Who have answered a special call.
Those who have taken a special job,
That simply demands their all.

Whether working alone at this arduous task,
Or complete with a company of staff.
They carry a burden too heavy for some,
But these folks just shrug and laugh.

They spend their time fighting crime,
Serving process, and feeling budget woes;
Or having to sell a good friends’ farm,
Just to settle the debt that he owes.

They’re heroes and villains at the same time,
Depending on whom you may ask.
 And every four years they have to decide,
If they’re still feeling up to the task.

At times they are parents’ to kids that have none,
Or a child to someone who has grown old.
They are gentle, they are tough,
They are warm, but with a nerve that is stone cold.

They are something to many, but nothing to some,
Yet each day they pin on that Star.
Looking for trouble and praying for none,
As they patrol the County in their car.

They won’t ever make a million bucks,
And the hours are too long and tough.
But if given the chance to help someone,
Just a Thank You is often enough.

And yes they complain and ask for more,
But each day, they just grin and bear it.
For they’ve come to realize their own rewards,
From the title, Your County Sheriff.
Barry Hillestad