Blaine Detective James Ross Honored as Minnesota Wild Community Hero for Distinguished Service

Blaine Police Detective James Ross was honored as the Minnesota Wild Community Hero during the December 11 game at Xcel Energy Center in St Paul, a recognition that highlights his long standing commitment to public safety, community engagement, and professional excellence.

Ross was introduced to the crowd during the third period, where the Minnesota Wild recognized him for a career defined by service and dedication to the residents of Blaine. The Community Hero program, presented in partnership with Cub, regularly celebrates Minnesotans who demonstrate exceptional contributions to their communities through leadership, service, courage or sustained commitment to the common good. Recent honorees have included military veterans, nonprofit leaders and first responders who have made lasting impacts across the state.

Detective Ross brings nearly twenty years of law enforcement experience to his role in the Blaine Police Department’s Special Operations Division. A United States Marine Corps combat veteran, he is known inside the department for his extensive training and instruction work. He serves as a use of force and firearms instructor and is also certified as a less lethal impact munitions instructor, grenadier instructor and department armorer. His expertise has supported agencies throughout the Twin Cities region. During the civil unrest of 2020 and 2021, Ross deployed as a grenadier with Blaine’s Mobile Field Force to assist public safety operations in Minneapolis, at the Minnesota State Capitol and in Brooklyn Center.

Ross has also emerged as a thoughtful voice in modern policing. In a recent professional publication, he emphasized the importance of de-escalation as a core skill that strengthens community trust, reduces the likelihood of force and helps officers manage volatile situations with clarity and calm. His approach aligns closely with the Blaine Police Department’s mission to serve with integrity, respect and professionalism. City officials have consistently noted that these values guide the department’s efforts in both daily operations and major public safety events.

The recognition of Detective Ross also reflects the broader community oriented philosophy of the Blaine Police Department. The department sponsors multiple programs aimed at building relationships with residents, including Safety Camp for elementary school students and the annual Heroes and Helpers holiday shopping event for youth. These initiatives are designed to strengthen trust, foster preventive partnerships and create a foundation of mutual respect between officers and the community.

For many Blaine residents who have interacted with Ross through investigations, trainings or civic events, his recognition at the Minnesota Wild game serves as a public acknowledgment of the often unseen work that defines a career in law enforcement. For the department, the honor is a moment to highlight one of its most dedicated professionals, whose service extends well beyond city limits and whose career embodies the values Blaine seeks to uphold.

Detective Ross’s selection as the Community Hero underscores not only his individual achievements but also the collective commitment of Blaine’s officers to protect, support and strengthen the community they serve.

MinneapoliMedia