Bill Hutton has announced he will seek a second term as Washington County sheriff.

Hutton, a former Oakdale police captain, was elected in 2006 on a promise that he would reduce turnover among deputies by restructuring the department.

He said this week that the attrition rate has dropped from more than 10 percent four years ago to 1.7 percent now.

Hutton, 50, of Stillwater, is so far unopposed.

He said his accomplishments include forming a Fugitive Apprehension Team that has arrested more than 700 fugitives and cleared nearly 1,000 warrants. He's also overseen the implementation of a new 800-megahertz public safety radio system and a new emergency communications center and extended the time deputies spend policing Washington County townships.

He has a master's degree from the University of St. Thomas and has attended the FBI National Academy.

He is vice president of the fourth district of the Minnesota Sheriff's Association and is co-chair of that organization's legislative committee.

KEVIN GILES