Paula Kruchowski Barrette

Paula Kruchowski Barrette has a strong background in law enforcement and legal prosecution. Paula Kruchowski began their career in 1997 as a Judicial Law Clerk for Judge David M. Duffy at the Hennepin County District Court. In 1998, they joined the City of Minneapolis as an Assistant City Attorney, where they prosecuted various misdemeanor offenses and became a member of the trial team. During their time with the City of Minneapolis, Paula also served as a Lead Instructor for the MCAO Academy Training Team, providing training for both recruits and existing officers. Paula Kruchowski held liaison positions with various organizations, including the Hennepin County Violations Bureau and the Minneapolis Park Police Department.

In 2013, Paula joined the Minneapolis Police Department's Domestic Assault Unit, where they worked closely with investigators to prosecute domestic violence cases. Paula Kruchowski also provided training on the department's domestic violence protocol and expanded it to include felony cases involving family or household members. During this time, they also served as a guest instructor at several law schools and spoke at various law enforcement classes.

From 2002 to 2008, Paula had special assignments as part of the Republican National Convention Legal Team and as a Special Assistant Hennepin County Attorney on the Drug Prosecution Team.

In 2006, Paula joined the Minneapolis Police Department as a Third Precinct Community Attorney. In this role, they served as a liaison between the police department, the court system, advocacy groups, and the community. Paula Kruchowski provided training to officers and counseled them on criminal matters.

Overall, Paula Kruchowski Barrette has extensive experience in law enforcement, prosecution, and training, making their a valuable asset in the legal field.

Paula Kruchowski Barrette completed their Bachelor of Arts degree in Criminology, Sociology, and Psychology from the University of Minnesota Duluth in 1993, graduating with Summa Cum Laude honors. Later, from 1993 to 1997, they attended Mitchell Hamline School of Law, where they earned their Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree in Law with Magna Cum Laude distinction.