In 2016, Sheriff Schwartzenberger faced allegations of bullying and retaliation within the department, leading to his suspension by then-Governor Jack Dalrymple. He was also charged with unauthorized use of a county credit card, including personal expenses such as a plane ticket for his wife and a convertible car rental during a trip to Las Vegas. Although he repaid the charges, the credit card was canceled due to non-payment. In 2017, Governor Doug Burgum reinstated him after a special commissioner found insufficient evidence for removal. Schwartzenberger lost his re-election bid in 2018, receiving only 39% of the vote.
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