Waconia Man Brandon DeWolf, 25, Arrested for Threatening Local Politician

Brandon DeWolf, 25, of Waconia was arrested in Otter Tail County on allegations he threatened a local politician, according to county prosecutors. Prosecutors say DeWolf called the victim multiple times and sent "derogatory and aggressive text messages" after receiving a call from the politician about a campaign. The victim described the calls as "angry and threatening."

Law enforcement arrested DeWolf without incident on Tuesday, February 3 for threats of violence and disorderly conduct. DeWolf made his first court appearance Thursday morning. Prosecutors have charged him with threats of violence; the disorderly conduct count was also listed at arrest. Beyond those filings and the victim's characterization of the communications, no additional court documents, bail information, or plea details have been released.

Officials took stepped-up precautions following the incident. In light of the current political climate and recent events statewide, law enforcement took safety precautions for the politician and their family, local authorities said. The precise nature of those precautions has not been disclosed and the identity of the targeted politician has not been made public in charging documents available so far.

The allegations center on post-campaign contact escalations. According to the account provided to prosecutors, the campaign-related call preceded the string of phone calls and texts that prompted the complaint. Investigators have not released transcripts or copies of the messages, and there is no public record yet of any restraining order or other protective filings tied to the case.

The arrest and charges underscore how local political activity can spill into personal safety concerns for officeholders and candidates. Otter Tail County voters and community leaders often rely on open dialogue and door-to-door campaigning; incidents involving threats or harassment can alter how campaigns operate and how constituents engage with public officials. Law enforcement responses and prosecutorial decisions in this case may shape local expectations about safety protocols during campaign season.

For residents following the case, next steps will include confirmation of formal charges in court filings and any scheduled hearings that set bail, arraignment, or trial dates. Community members and campaign teams should watch for official updates from county prosecutors or the sheriff's office as records become available. The case also highlights broader questions for civic life in Otter Tail County: how local institutions balance free political expression with protections against harassment, and how officials will communicate safety measures without unduly limiting public participation.