Assistant attorney running for Washington County attorney position

Assistant Washington County Attorney Kevin Magnuson announced his candidacy Wednesday for the Washington County attorney position.

The candidacy news follows current attorney Pete Orput’s retirement announcement last week.

During his 22-year legal career, Magnuson has handled a variety of cases, including class action lawsuits, criminal cases, and vulnerable adult exploitation and neglect cases, according to the Washington County Attorney’s Office.

As a prosecutor, he has represented clients at the U.S. Supreme Court and the Minnesota Supreme Court, as well as federal and state trial courts throughout Washington County.

In announcing his candidacy for Washington County attorney, Magnuson said, "It is gratifying to work in the community where I grew up. Washington County is full of good people whose values I share. Working together with my colleagues in the County Attorney’s Office, we will build upon the strong foundation that Washington County Attorney Pete Orput established over the last 11 years. I will continue working to accomplish real justice in the community by holding violent criminals accountable and empowering victims."

Of the announcement, Orput stated, "I am proud to endorse Kevin Magnuson for Washington County Attorney. Kevin is a brilliant lawyer, terrific leader, and committed public servant. I know him well and I tell you most importantly he is a great person committed to justice. I’m confident Kevin will make Washington County a better place to live, work, and raise a family.

"Kevin has the temperament and judgment to vigorously prosecute violations of the law while also wisely exercising discretion to take actions that deter crime and heal the wounds that exist in our communities."