Statement from Itasca County Sheriff Joe Dasovich Regarding Michael Hart

The Itasca County Sheriff’s Office is issuing the following statement to clarify the circumstances surrounding the release of Michael Hart from custody.

Michael Hart escaped from the St. Louis County Northeast Regional Corrections (NERC) facility while facing multiple charges related to crimes against persons. While in St. Louis County custody, he incurred additional charges and was aware he faced a presumptive prison sentence.

After fleeing the NERC facility, Hart was located in Itasca County and taken into custody. He was held in the Itasca County Jail for 106 days, during which time he pled guilty to charges filed in Itasca County. Sentencing for those charges is scheduled for May 4th.

Following Hart’s guilty plea, the Itasca County Sheriff’s Office notified St. Louis County of his status. St. Louis County subsequently advised that Hart’s warrant had been quashed by a Judge in St. Louis County. Without a valid warrant or official hold from St. Louis County, Itasca County had no legal authority to continue holding Hart in custody.

Hart was released in accordance with the law.

This situation is the direct result of decisions made by St. Louis County Attorney’s Office. At all times, the Itasca County Sheriff’s Office acted appropriately, lawfully, and within its legal authority.

Sheriff Joe Dasovich

Itasca County Sheriff’s Office