Duties & Responsibilities

The Houston County Attorney's Office serves as the chief prosecutor for all felony, gross misdemeanors, and juvenile offenses committed within Houston County.  In addition, the office prosecutes misdemeanors and petty misdemeanors which occur within the unincorporated areas of the County and which occur within those municipalities that contract with the County.  The County Attorney's Office vigorously prosecutes all criminal and juvenile matters within its authority in a manner that ensures due process and equal protections to the victim, the accused, and the citizenry at large.

The Houston County Attorney's Office serves as chief legal counsel for the Houston County Board of Commissioners, the various departments established and maintained by the Board of Commissioners, and to such committees of the Board as appropriate.  The Office represents the County before the courts of this state, the United States and other jurisdictions where authorized.  The Office also appears on behalf of the County before such agencies, commissions, boards, and other organizations before whom the County has business.

Investigations

The County Attorney’s Office does not investigate crimes. Investigations are conducted by law enforcement officers such as the police department or sheriff’s department. Law enforcement officers gather evidence (e.g. statements from witnesses, photos, fingerprints, drug tests, etc.) and submit the evidence to the County Attorney for review and a charging decision.

Report a Crime


To report a crime you need to contact the law enforcement agency for your area.

Caledonia Police Department
507-725-3889

Hokah Police Department
507-894-4777

Houston County/Brownsville/Eitzen/Spring Grove
Houston County Sheriff’s Office: 507-725-3379

Houston Police Department
507-896-4033, Ext. 4

La Crescent Police Department
507-895-4414

Truancy Referral Information for School Officials

Due to changes in Minnesota law, Houston County's process for addressing school attendance concerns has changed. A new form was adopted by Houston County Public Health and Human Services. Additional information, along with the updated Truancy and Educational Neglect Referral Form, can be found at the bottom of the Houston County Department of Human Services home page.