General Overview, Districts

OWATONNA POLICE DEPARTMENT—2018 Annual Report

General Overview—Patrol

Often referred to as the backbone to a police department, the uniformed Patrol Division is the largest and most visible division of the Owatonna Police Department. Tasked with patrolling and answering calls for service within the city of Owatonna—an area encompassing approximately 14.45 square miles—the Patrol Division was staffed by (1) captain, (6) patrol sergeants and was authorized for (20) patrol officers. The sergeants and patrol officers are assigned to one of three policing districts—the North, South or West Central District. Patrol districts were designed in 2007 with a focus on building relationships with businesses and residents to make a positive impact on the quality of life in our neighborhoods. This is accomplished through partnerships, collaboration, problem solving and community engagement opportunities. The officers meet regularly with our citizens, businesses and community leaders and engage other agencies and organizations to identify issues and seek positive resolutions. Specialty units that are within the Patrol Division include the Field Training Unit, Use of Force Unit and the Firearms Unit.

Both of the young men to the left—Matt Borash & Nate Heeren—turned in their light blue CSO uniforms in exchange for navy blue as licensed police officers in September 2018.

Police Districts

Above—Joel Hunt came back to patrol the road in August 2018 after working in the Detective Bureau for several years. Besides his detective duties, Joel has been / is a field training officer, a SCDIU tactical officer, UAS (Drone) pilot, physical evidence officer and was named the 2017 Police Officer of the Year. With all of Joel’s experience, he is a very valuable addition to the Patrol Division.

On May 1st, 2018, Captain Mundale, Detective Hunt and Lisa Waypa from public health spoke to a group of moms at Bethel Church who gather together as Mother’s of Preschoolers. They presented on child safety seats, how to protect you and your child against internet crimes and a wrap up on bicycle safety.