In a recent government meeting, officials discussed the significant rise in criminal trials in Stearns County, highlighting a post-COVID surge in both adult and juvenile cases. The meeting revealed that the number of trials scheduled has dramatically increased, with the criminal justice system adapting to handle the backlog created during the pandemic.

Officials noted that while approximately 40 to 50 cases go to trial each year, around 400 are prepared for litigation, indicating a substantial workload for the criminal division. Last year alone, the county tried ten child sex abuse and adult sexual assault cases, a notable increase from previous years where the average was three to five cases.

The meeting also addressed the challenges faced by law enforcement, particularly in St. Cloud, where staffing shortages have led to a decrease in adult criminal case referrals. The St. Cloud Police Department is currently operating with ten to twelve fewer officers, which has impacted their ability to respond to adult crime while simultaneously seeing a rise in serious juvenile cases.

The discussion emphasized the complexity of cases being handled, with officials acknowledging that the judicial system cannot simply assume the availability of courtrooms for trials. The introduction of alternative response models, such as co-responder initiatives, has also influenced the nature of cases being referred for prosecution, as some incidents are now addressed outside the traditional criminal justice framework.

Overall, the meeting underscored the evolving landscape of criminal justice in Stearns County, marked by increased trial demands and shifting law enforcement priorities.