Attorney General’s Office to assist in review of death of Hardel Sherrell in Beltrami County jail

AG’s office agrees to assist Beltrami County Attorney in review, possible criminal charging in 2018 death of Mr. Sherrell in Beltrami County jail

February 11, 2023 (SAINT PAUL) — Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison announced today that at the request of the Beltrami County Attorney, his office will assist in the review of the death of Hardel Sherrell in the Beltrami County jail on September 2, 2018.  

In August 2022, the Bureau of Criminal Apprehension completed its investigation and referred the matter to Beltrami County Attorney David Hanson for consideration for criminal charges. Attorney General Ellison’s office has accepted County Attorney Hanson’s request to assist in reviewing the case under Minnesota Statutes Sec. 8.01, which provides, “Upon request of the county attorney, the attorney general shall appear in court in such criminal cases as the attorney general deems proper.”  

“Hardel Sherrell’s life was important and had value. We’re committed to assisting the Beltrami County Attorney and will follow justice wherever it leads. To Hardel’s mother and loved ones: you have my deepest condolences, and you can count on our very best effort.” 

Review of the voluminous file is expected to take time. The Attorney General’s Office will have no more comment on the case until further notice.