Marshall County has a new face on the sheriff’s office roster, and for the first time in county history, that face belongs to a woman.
Morgan Rein was sworn in June 1 by Judge Sommers as the newest deputy with the Marshall County Sheriff’s Office. She joins the department with prior law enforcement experience in South Dakota and a background that blends classroom training, field work and a long-standing interest in public service.
Rein grew up in Willmar, Minnesota, and graduated from Willmar High School before eventually making her way to South Dakota in 2022. She completed an Associate of Applied Science degree in law enforcement at Lake Area Technical College and later worked in Moody County as a deputy. She is now continuing her education through South Dakota State University, pursuing a bachelor’s degree in criminology with a minor in psychology.
Her path into law enforcement was not always set in stone, she said, but early experiences helped steer her in that direction.
“I was pre-med when I was in West Texas,” Rein said. “Then I switched to criminology. I had contact with officers when I was younger and always wanted to be the first person there to help.”
She also noted that a family connection influenced her decision, with an older sister working in law enforcement and opportunities to complete ride-alongs helping solidify her interest.
Before joining Marshall County, Rein gained hands-on experience in Moody County and took advantage of additional training opportunities, including negotiator school and ARIDE training, which focuses on identifying impaired driving and how drugs affect behavior and motor skills. She also attended an all-women training program in Texas that emphasized firearms, searches and patrol techniques.
“I learned a lot about searching, shooting, and approaching people,” she said. “It really helped build confidence in all aspects of the job.”
Just days before starting in Marshall County, Rein transitioned directly from her previous position, describing the move as a quick change but a positive step in her career. She said she was drawn to the area because of existing connections, familiarity with the community and the opportunity for continued professional growth.
“I got to know the area and some of the people here,” she said. “It just felt like a good fit and a good place to keep building my career.”
Rein’s arrival also marks a milestone for the department as the first female deputy in Marshall County history. While she acknowledges the significance, she said she focuses more on the work than the title.
“I see it as just my job,” she said. “I think it’s awesome that more females are getting into law enforcement. I just feel like one of the guys and I fit in with everyone.”
Still, she recognizes the importance of representation, especially for younger residents who may see her on patrol or at community events.
“If any little girls see me, maybe they’ll think it’s possible to be in law enforcement too,” she said.
Marshall County Sheriff Sam Swanson said Rein’s addition brings both experience and a fresh perspective to the department.
“We will value Deputy Rein’s experience and knowledge,” Swanson said. “It’s always nice to have new blood and a new way of looking at things. She comes highly qualified and will be a positive for the department and the county. It will be nice to have a positive example of a woman in law enforcement, especially for young girls to look up to.”
Rein said she is looking forward to getting to know the community and focusing on the day-to-day responsibilities of the job. “Just keeping everyone safe and getting to know people,” she said.
When she is not on duty or studying, Rein enjoys reading, spending time with friends and family, going to the lake and watching crime and police dramas.
As she begins her work in Marshall County, she said her approach will be straightforward and community focused. “I’m friendly and chatty,” she said with a laugh. “I like talking to people and making connections. If I see something, I’m going to deal with it, but I also want people to feel comfortable coming up and saying hi.”
With that mindset, Rein steps into her role not only as a new deputy, but as a new presence in the community she now serves
