Walker: Cass County Sheriff Accused of Sharing Nude Images

WALKER, Cass County (trfnews.i234.me) — Cass County Sheriff Bryan Welk faces allegations involving nude photographs and jail footage. The complaint was filed by Deputy Aaron Ammerman on Jan. 7, 2026.

Ammerman is challenging Welk in the 2026 sheriff’s election. According to KAXE’s investigation, the complaint describes two alleged incidents from October 2025.

What the Complaint Alleges

The first allegation involves nude photographs of a woman connected to an internal investigation. Ammerman said Welk showed him those images despite his having no role in that investigation.

Ammerman also alleged Welk played jail video showing a nude adult man. He said the recording was shown to someone outside the sheriff’s office.

The deputy called both disclosures improper and raised concerns about the handling of sensitive materials. KAXE reported that Ammerman confirmed the complaint was genuine on Oct. 4.

Official portrait of Cass County Sheriff Bryan Welk — Official portrait of Sheriff Bryan Welk, not a mugshot. Photo: Cass County Sheriff’s Office.

Investigation Complete, Findings Not Released

Cass County Administrator Josh Stevenson confirmed that the county completed its investigation. In a Sept. 11 email, he said the review had concluded.

However, county officials have not released the full investigative report or detailed findings. The county board voted in May to treat elected officials as employees for records purposes.

Minnesota Statutes Section 13.43 sets rules for access to personnel records. Some complaint information remains private unless disciplinary action occurs.

KAXE questioned the county’s reading of the law and sought guidance from the Minnesota Data Practices Office. The dispute has left key details out of public view.

Welk Responds to Allegations

Welk said he believes the complaint is politically motivated. He suggested it was intended to help Ammerman’s campaign for sheriff.

Welk did not directly address the specific disclosures during KAXE’s interview. His attorney, Imran Ali, said the sheriff faced restrictions on discussing the investigation.

Ali criticized unverified social media claims and called for respect for the complaint process. Welk said he knew of no disciplinary action in the matter.

Asked who could discipline him, Welk answered, “The voters.”

Sheriff’s Race Draws Scrutiny

Welk has worked for the sheriff’s office for 28 years. Ammerman has served there for 22 years.

Former jail official Rick Wolske told KAXE that Ammerman sought his advice after the alleged incidents. Wolske criticized the county’s decision to investigate the matter internally.

The complaint has fueled tension during the 2026 campaign. Its allegations remain disputed, and the county has not made its findings public.

Additional agency information is available on the official Cass County Sheriff’s Office website.

I’m Adrian Cole reporting for TRF News.