Owatonna Police Department-2021 Annual Report

Citizens of Owatonna

Mayor and City Council Members

City Administration and Staff

The team at the Owatonna Police Department is proud to present the 2021 Annual Report. I am officially retiring from law enforcement after 35 years of service and this will be my last greeting. It has truly been an honor and a dream come true to serve the citizens of Owatonna, Minnesota. Thank you, from all of us, for the kind letters to cookie drop offs to handshakes to waves going down the road. It is these types of connections with the public that we always hold near and dear to our hearts. Our staff approaches situations with kindness, empathy, compassion, and care. I am very proud of those moments, and they are more frequent than you think. They are why we signed up to do this job.

Everything around the people has dramatically changed in law enforcement from training to technology to equipment to perception. I wanted a career that was fast-paced, complex, and different every day. The verdict is in -- it didn’t disappoint! It was truly an amazing ride. The Owatonna PD has advanced over the years. The culture, demographics, education, training, and equipment has reimagined the way we deliver services. The focus on culture, crisis communication, conflict resolution, and the life experiences of others has changed the way we interact with people. A remodeled LEC, new unmanned aerial systems, body worn cameras, social media, and forensics has influenced policing in positive ways. As my successor, Jeffrey Mundale, authors future annual reports, I will stand by to watch in amazement at the new and interesting accomplishments of the talented people within the OPD. Community engagement, or community policing, is a top priority for the Owatonna Police Department. We pride ourselves on our Police Explorer Post, Citizen Academies, Police Reserve Unit, Night to Unite, Shop with a Cop, Leadership Owatonna, Police Chaplains, and a host of other connections with our friends, neighbors, and co-workers. As you peruse this annual report, I trust you will see our commitment to everyone. Our goal is to protect and serve! It guides us daily. This annual report is a culmination of those efforts. It displays the pride and efforts by the Owatonna Police Department staff. I want to thank the community for sharing their life experiences with me. All of you had an impact in my life and I will cherish those memories. I will miss all of you!

Warmest Regards,

Keith E. Hiller, Chief of Police City of Owatonna, Minnesota

The Owatonna Police Department is dedicated to attaining the highest level of professionalism and accountability in its service to the citizens of Owatonna. Recognizing that our strength stems from our partnership with all sectors of the community, we envision an organization structured to meet the ever-changing needs of our citizens and our professions.

Owatonna Police Department Page 3

Sergeants (6)

Patrol Officers (20) Includes: K9 Unit (1)

Crime Scene Techs (3)

SWAT (4)

Field Training (6)

Mobile Field Force (10)

Drone (3)

Firearms / Use of Force(6)

First Aid / CPR Instructor (1)

Chaplains (2) Reserve Officers (7) ExplorerPost (10)

Command Staff

Divisions: Sworn Staff

Civilian Staff Volunteers

Shared Staff

Administrative Technician (1)

Chief of Police

Captain (1)

Records Clerks (4)

Administrative Technician (1)

Patrol Operations

Records Management

The Owatonna Police Department is dedicated to providing a safe and secure community through partnerships, leadership, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. Policing excellence through our people, our work, and our relationships.

Detectives (2)

ICAC

Child Protection (1)

SROs (2)

Community ServiceOfficers

Includes Parking Control& AnimalControl

DetectiveBureau

SCDUI Commander (.5)

Evidence Technician (1) Captain (1)

(3)

Support Services

ProfessionalStandards

OPD SCDIU Agent (1)

DrugInvestigations

SCDIUAgents (3)

Sergeant (.5)

The Owatonna City Council approved the annual base and capital improvement budgets after a series of presentations by the: Chief of Police, City Administrator and Finance Director

Click on the City of Owatonna’s 2021 Adopted Budget below and scroll to page 110 for program details.

Mayor: Thomas A. Kuntz

Administrator: Kris M. Busse

City Budget: $31,428,955

Population: 25,683

Median Age: 38.4

Residential: 7,993 Single Family Homes

2,465 Registered Rental Units

Location: Crossroads of I35 & U.S. Highways 14 & 218

Land Area: 15.16 Square Miles

Roadways: 383 Lane Miles Industry: 500+ Business 40+ Manufacturers

Parks & Rec: 34 Parks, 16 miles of trails

NEW HIRES

Authorized Personnel: 37 Sworn, 9 Civilian

RETIREMENTS / RESIGNATIONS

Officer Matthew Borash—01/13/2021

Officer Todd Schwanke—05/08/2021

Officer Brandon Fandel 08/08/2021

OFFICER Anthony Malepsy 04/19/21

OFFICER Kyle Martin 05/10/21

OFFICER Michael Brein 01/03/21

GENERAL OVERVIEW

The Administrative Division is proud to serve the community. The division is comprised of the Chief of Police, Captains, and an Administrative Technician. The division sets the strategic plan for the department. The department’s mission, vision, and values set the tone for all our initiatives. We hire for success because our staff is the most valued asset. The legacy of the police department is defined by the sum of our work groups. The synergy of these work groups is managed with public safety as its priority. The team is focused on providing an advanced level of service to the community. We are responsible for hiring, professional standards, succession planning, budgeting, professional development, community engagement, and everything in-between.

HONESTY: Truthful and open in our interactions with each other and citizens we serve

INTEGRITY: Above reproach, ethical, and doing what is right

TRUST: Honorable; maintaining a high level of trust with each other and our community

RESPECT: Value each other and citizens by showing understanding and appreciation of our similarities and differences

ACCOUNTABILITY: Conscientious, professional, and dependable for ouractions

COMMITMENT TO EXCELLENCE: Adhere to strict standards of conduct and performance in everything we do

POSITIVE ATTITUDE: Strive to bring positive constructive influences when dealing with each other and our community

TEAMWORK: Work in our department and with members of our community to achieve our goals; make use of diverse skills, abilities, roles, and views

EXCELLENCE: Compelled to be leaders and always do our best. Strive to be known for taking the extra step, going the extra mile; leaving no stone unturned in our work. This calls for people with an enduring commitment and dedication to the mission. It requires us to have a commitment to service before self.

PROFESSIONAL STANDARDS

One of the most important functions of a police department is that of internal affairs. Modern law enforcement agencies are complex organizations engaged in high liability activities with the corresponding need to maintain the integrity of its operations and the ethical conduct of its members.

It is the policy of the Owatonna Police Department to investigate complaints and allegations related to internal discipline in a manner that will assure the community of prompt corrective action in the event of employee misconduct, while at the same time protecting employees from unwarranted criticism pursuant to the proper discharge of official duties. The policy provides for the investigation of alleged or suspected violations of law or departmental policies.

Upon the conclusion of a complete and thorough investigation, the Captain of Investigations submits the final report to the Chief of Police to make a final determination if the alleged misconduct took place or whether the officer’s actions were justified, lawful, and proper. In addition, on occasion, other police agencies will contact the Owatonna Police Department to conduct an investigation on their behalf to avoid a conflict of interest.

In 2021, Professional Standards investigated 13 complaints involving Owatonna Police Department staff. Ten of the investigations resulted in disciplinary action taken, three investigations either exonerated the officer or did not sustain the complaint.

2021

Department Training

FIREARMS TRAINING UNIT

Captain Joshua Sorensen, Sergeants Jason Matejcek and Andrew Drenth

Detective Ben Johnson, Patrol Officers Andrew Van Osdale and Alan Callahan

Officer Alan Callahan attended and successfully passed the one-week (40 hour) Basic Firearms Instructor Course in St. Cloud, MN, put on by Mission Critical Concepts. Thus, allowing the Firearms Unit to utilize him as an instructor in 2021. The instructors were tasked with training, testing, and evaluating each officer under the state mandated training requirements which are set forth by the Minnesota Peace Officer Standards and Training Board (P.O.S.T.). Each licensed officer qualified in the use of their department issued handgun, shotgun, and patrol rifle. In 2021, the Firearms Training Unit conducted three live-fire firearms trainings: annual qualification, adverse weather, and low light training.

USE OF FORCE TRAINING UNIT

Captain Josh Sorensen, Patrol Officers Matt Oeltjenbruns, Alan Callahan, and Detective Travis Ardolf

The use of force instructors have received specialized instructor training in SPEAR, L.O.C.K.U.P., TASER, Less Lethal, and ASP curriculums. Officers Travis Ardolf and Matt Oeltjenbruns instruct our taser program while taking care of the maintenance and downloading of data when these units are deployed in the field. Our agency has outfitted each sworn officer with an X2 Taser.

In 2021, the instructors dedicated two full days of training to provide a minimum of four (4) hours of continuing education credits to all sworn police officers. Our community service and reserve officers also received annual training from the use of force unit. In addition to the training mentioned, all sworn officers completed annual mandated online training modules. These modules included three additional hours of use of force law and principles, legislative updates, duty to intervene, and duty to protect. Sworn officers completed multiple mandated online course work for de-escalation training and mental health training including, four hours on mental health training, four hours on autism spectrum disorder, persuasion/ de-escalation, and suicide prevention. The use of force unit works with each newly hired officer for a minimum of ten hours to review department policies, state statutes, and our current training curriculum.

DRONE

(UAV) commonly known as a drone”. It is flown and operated by a ground-based controller who has capabilities to run dual cameras which include high definition, zoom, and forward looking infrared. The UAV utilizes real-time kinetics to ensure accurate global positioning down to the centimeter and enables high precision data collection for surveying, photogrammetry, mapmaking, and so much more.

Since March of 2018, the Owatonna Police Department has operated a UAV, authorized by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) via part 107 and waiver approvals. The UAV Operations Policy was updated to coincide with the state of Minnesota’s newly implemented Minn. Stat § 626.19 subdivision 12: Use of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles. Our department’s policy requires that a yearly report of deployments be submitted to the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension (BCA).

In 2021, our UAV team consisted of one sergeant and program coordinator Jason Petterson, and three officers Joel Hunt, Andrew Van Osdale, and Travis Johnson. All the operators have completed the necessary training and testing to receive their remote operator certificates from the FAA. The team hopes to expand to include one additional operator from the police department and operators from the Owatonna Fire Department in the upcoming years.

CRISIS INTERVENTION

Minnesota State Statute 626.8469:

Training in Crisis Response, Conflict Management, and Cultural Diversity

Subdivision 1. In-service training required. (a) Beginning July 1, 2018, the chief law enforcement officer of every state and local law enforcement agency shall provide in -service training in crisis intervention and mental illness crises; conflict management and mediation; and recognizing and valuing community diversity and cultural differences to include implicit bias training to every peace officer and part-time peace officer employed by the agency. The training shall comply with learning objectives developed and approved by the board and shall meet board requirements for boardapproved continuing education credit. The training shall consist of at least 16 continuing education credits within an officer's three-year licensing cycle. Each peace officer with a license renewal date after June 30, 2018, is not required to complete this training until the officer's next full three-year licensing cycle.

(b) Beginning July 1, 2021, the training mandated under paragraph (a) must be provided by an approved entity. The board shall create a list of approved entities and training courses and make the list available to the chief law enforcement officer of every state and local law enforcement agency.

(c) For every peace officer and part-time peace officer with a license renewal date of June 30, 2022, or later, the training mandated under paragraph (a) must:

(1) include a minimum of 6 hours for crisis intervention and mental illness crisis training that meets the standards established in subdivision 1a; and

(2) include a minimum of 4 hours to ensure safer interactions between peace officers and persons with autism in compliance with section 626.8474

MOBILE FIELD FORCE

The Mobile Field Force Unit is made up of ten officers specifically organized to support anti-riot operations through the use of maneuver tactics aimed at dispersing crowds. The Owatonna Police Department’s Mobile Field Force Unit trains with multiple southeast Minnesota Police and Sheriff’s departments on a routine basis. Each member is outfitted with a tac commander riot control suit, protech ballistic helmet, and an Avon C50 gas mask.

SCDIU TACTICAL TEAM OVERVIEW

The South Central Drug Investigation Unit (SCDIU) SWAT Team had a total of 30 members from the four counties it is responsible for—Steele, Freeborn, Waseca, and Faribault. The safety and preservation of all human life is the team’s primary goal. The SCDIU SWAT Team accomplished this goal by acting as a law enforcement support unit, which was to be specially trained and equipped to resolve critical high-risk situations. The members of the team consisted of the following positions:

Commander, Assistant Commander, Team Leaders (Immediate Action, Deliberate Action, Logistics, Sniper)

Assistant Team Leaders, Snipers, Operators, Negotiators, Medics, and Drone Pilots

Current Owatonna Team Members

Officer Joel Hunt Team Leader Logistics

Officer Matthew Oeltjenbruns Asst Team Lead/Sniper

Sergeant Zack Schumaker Asst Team Lead/Owatonna SWAT Coordinator

Officer Alan Callahan Operator/Medic

HIGHLIGHTS

• Special Operations Training Association (SOTA) Conference. Several operators were able to attend the annual SOTA conference in Duluth. Training topics consisted of sniper operations, Bearcat functionality and driving, ambush training, and several different breakout sessions.

• In the final stages of securing a Bearcat for the team. In 2022, the order will be placed for this valuable piece of equipment. This will drastically increase the level of protection the team has and will greatly improve our tactical advantage on callouts.

• Redback One The team was able to attend the Redback One training in Owatonna. The course provided advanced training to law enforcement, military, and government professionals in the area of weapons handling and tactics. The course was three days long and the students fired thousands of rounds to hone their skillsets.

All operators attended a monthly 10 hour training. The purpose is to maintain a high-level of proficiency not only in their designated areas of expertise, but operators are also cross trained so they may meet the needs of the team on a moment’s notice.

2021 Training topics were as follows:

 Tactical First Aid

 Distraction Devices

 Personal Protection Detail (Dignitary)

Less Lethal

Warrant Service (CQB)

Barricaded Operations (CQB)

Open Field Searches

Drone Operations

Chemical Agents

Hostage Rescue

Vehicle Assaults

 SOTA

 Redback One

EMERGENCY VEHICLE OPERATIONS

As per MN Stat 626.8458, Subd.5, in-service training in emergency vehicle operations and in the conduct of police pursuits must be provided to every licensed officer. Mandated every 5 years, the training shall comply with learning objectives developed and approved by the Minnesota Peace Officers Standards and Training Board.

In 2021, officers spent time at the SE Minnesota Regional Public Safety Center where they refreshed their driving skills on a challenging course that concluded with a comprehensive exercise designed to put all the skills the students learned to use in a controlled environment.

FIELD TRAINING PROGRAM

The field training process of any police department is a critical component of any successful police department. New officers are put through an extensive five-phase field training and evaluation period, in which they are critiqued on a daily basis in eighteen areas of core competency. The first four phases involve an intense 16-week training period where the new officer is assigned to a field training officer. Newly hired officers spend time working at least one training phase during a day, evening, and night shift. Each phase involves direction and coaching from a different field training officer. During the fourth phase, the field training officer rides along and acts as an observer to the probationary officer. The team of dedicated field training officers are committed to the training, development, and success of the new police officers as well as promoting the department’s mission as a whole. Upon successful completion of the field training program, the police officer candidates are certified for solo patrol duties.

In 2021, Sergeant Tracy DuChene coordinated and supervised the Owatonna Police Department’s Field Training Program. Field Training Officers Luke Selvik, Alexandra Vogel, Andrew VanOsdale, Joel Hunt, Benjamin Metcalf, Anthony Malepsy, Casey Martin, and Matthew Oeltjenbruns were assigned to the unit to train newly hired Officers Michael Brein, Anthony Malepsy, Kyle Martin, and Matthew Lounsbury who have all successfully completed the field training program and have begun solo patrol.

FBI NATIONAL ACADEMY

In December, Captain Jeff Mundale returned to Owatonna following an 11-week professional development outing to the prestigious FBI National Academy in Quantico, Virginia. As part of NA Class #280, Jeff was nominated and selected as one of the 135 class members for this session—participants are drawn from every U.S. state, territory, and international partner nation. Course classes were offered in a diverse set of areas and officers participated in a wide range of leadership and specialized training. Jeff has been with the Owatonna Police Department since 1995 and has served in many leadership roles in the department. Jeff was promoted to the rank of Captain in 2010 and currently serves as the Patrol Commander of Patrol Division. Jeff is the fourth Owatonna officer selected to attend the Academy since it began in 1935. We are proud of him for being chosen to represent Owatonna and the State of Minnesota in Quantico!

In 2021, K9 Vegas and his handler Casey Martin successfully passed their annual certification testing though the National Police Canine Association (NPCA) as a canine team in Princeton, MN. This annual certification required the team to demonstrate much of their skillset in front of judges from around the state. As canine Vegas is a dual purpose canine, he had to prove his skills in both narcotics and criminal apprehension. The demonstrated skills included obedience (on and off lead), various types of apprehension, an outdoor area search for humans, an indoor building search as well as vehicle and room searches for narcotics. Officer Martin and K9 Vegas put these skills to good use often and had nearly 40 deployments within Steele County. f.

K9 TEAM

Patrol Division

GENERAL OVERVIEW

The patrol division is the uniformed men and women of OPD that are responsible for patrolling the streets in marked police vehicles and as a result, they are the face of the police department. In almost all instances, they are the first point of contact for citizen generated calls for service, traffic and pedestrian safety efforts, visibility in the community, emergency calls for service, and proactive community policing initiatives. The patrol division handles the public with 365/24/7 service and the coordinated effort is divided into three patrol districts. Each patrol officer is assigned a patrol district and is responsible to answer calls in their respective area, identify problems and work with community members and citizens to prevent crime and find sustainable solutions. Embedded in the patrol division are police supervisors or sergeants. Sergeants monitor the day-to-day activities and actions of the police/patrol officers. Sergeants are also responsible to direct resources, manage crime scenes, evaluate performance, support the mission and initiatives from administration, and accept complaints and commendations. The sergeants are assigned to supervise and lead specialized units, such as Field Training, Use of Force, Firearms, K9, Drone, SWAT, Reserve Unit, Explorers, Traffic Safety (TZD), and Mobile Field Force to name a few.

Our very own Pam Roberts was selected as a Minnesota Big Brothers Big Sisters School Site “Big of the Year”! On June 7th, Big Brother Big Sisters staff and Pam’s little surprised her in the lobby of the LEC to formally recognize her with this achievement. We are so proud of you Pam!

In 2021, the patrol division answered 43,312 calls for service. They initiated 5,669 traffic stops, resulting in 86 DWI’s. OPD believes in proactive traffic enforcement to deter crime, maintain safe streets and neighborhoods, identify offenders, educate citizens, and seek voluntary compliance. About 78% of all traffic stops result in a warning.

CHAPLAINS

DEPARTMENT FLEET

Reverend Loren Olson, Parish Nurse Nancy Deetz (retired 6/25/21), Reverend Brent Carlson

After a 2020 COVID hiatus, the Moonlighter’s Exchange Club has named an Owatonna Police Officer of the Year for 2021 Detective Christian Berg. Christian has been a police officer with our department since June of 2011. He was assigned to the Detective Bureau in 2016 where he currently works as a general investigator. Christian is also assigned to the Minnesota Human Trafficking Task Force. He has been the recipient of many informal written acknowledgements from community members and partnering agencies and is a recipient of two formal department commendations.

GENERAL OVERVIEW

The Detective Bureau is a support division to the Owatonna Police Department and is comprised of a captain, detective sergeant, (2) general investigators, (1) child protection investigator, (2) school resource officers, (1) drug task force agent, and (1) evidence technician. The Detective Bureau is tasked with a variety of responsibilities; the primary function being to provide investigative support to the Patrol Division. Reported incidents are carefully screened by the detective sergeant to determine those cases that require additional follow-up which would typically over task the Patrol Division’s resources. Case assignments to detectives often include cases requiring multiple interviews, out-of-town follow-ups, crime scene work, surveillance activities, obtaining search warrants or subpoenas, and assist outside law enforcement agencies on investigations that overlap into Owatonna. In addition, the Detective Bureau sergeant also serves as the commander of the South Central Drug Investigation Unit (SCDIU)a local and grant funded Violent Crimes Enforcement Team (VCET) that serves Steele, Waseca, Freeborn and Faribault Counties and the cities contained within those counties with five agents assigned in 2021.

Some time ago, Jostens started a unique relationship with the department by honoring police officers who have served with the Owatonna Police Department for -years with gift of an anniversary ring. Since the inception of the relationship, Jostens has honored 16 former and current employees with a customized 25th anniversary ring.

In October 2021, Detective Bureau Captain Eric Rethemeier received a ring for his 28+ years of service to the Owatonna Police Department as well as Captain Jeff Mundale for 26+ years and Sergeant Andy DeVinny for 25+ years. We are very thankful to Jostens for recognizing these officers for their dedication to the Owatonna community.

Eric Rethemeier

Andy DeVinny

Jeff Mundale

SCHOOL RESOURCE OFFICERS

At the start of the 2021 school year, there was changeover in the school resource officer position at the Owatonna High School and Alternative Learning Center from Detective Brady Vaith to Detective Derrik Quinlan. A normal day in the life of Owatonna PD’s Detective Quinlan starts out in the main lobby of the high school where he greets all the kids entering for the school day. As he walks the halls, his priority is to maintain a presence of calm and positivity while he continues to chat with the young adults throughout the day lending a trustworthy ear wherever needed. Derrik responds to any issues within the high school and alternative learning center that involves the students as well as assists other OPD officers when dealing with students in the community and outside the walls of the high school. He also assists with security and support for the student body, other participants, and staff at sporting events.

Detective Steve Bowman has been assigned school resource officer at the Owatonna Middle School and the elementary schools since the start of the 2020 school year. His day begins at 7:55 a.m. when he greets the OMS students as they enter the school for a great day of learning.

Steve maintains a visible presence while walking the halls where he conducts checks and provides building security. He enjoys speaking to the students at passing time between classes and during the 4 lunch periods. On occasion, Steve can be found leading presentations on different topics like child care safety, the dangers of drug and alcohol use, or forensics. He is also a resource for students struggling with personal issues and mentors them on positive decision making as they navigate through their middle school years. Steve really enjoys his additional visits at the elementary schools and has a heart for all the kids!

PREDATORY OFFENDER REGISTRY

The Owatonna Police Department maintains compliance records for predatory offenders who reside within city limits. Though the number of offenders fluctuates frequently, the city had approximately 77 active offenders. This number reflects offenders with no risk level up to the highest risk level (3). The Owatonna Police Department works closely with the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension Predatory Offender Unit and the Minnesota Department of Corrections in monitoring these offenders and assuring their information is up to date and accurate. Police personnel conduct biannual compliance checks on all offenders living in the city with personal residence visits and obtaining current photographs for the offender registry.

Detective Bureau

Detectives Steve Bowman & Derrik Quinlan Owatonna High School

Following the shooting that took place at Dartts Park on July 18th, Owatonna officers and detectives identified the two vehicles believed to be involved in the shooting and additional investigation developed a suspect. On Friday, July 23rd, detectives interviewed Zackary Schultz, age 18 of Northfield, who admitted to firing a .22 pistol at a victim over a drug deal. Subsequently, a search warrant was executed by the Northfield Police Department at an address in Northfield where the weapon believed to be used in the shooting was recovered. Schultz was charged in district court with Drive-by Shooting, 2nd Degree Assault, and Reckless Discharge of a Firearm, all felonies. On July 27th, Owatonna detectives made a second arrest in the July 18th shooting that occurred in Dartts Park. In the initial investigation of the shooting, .22 caliber and .223 caliber bullet casings were found at the scene. A .22 pistol had been previously recovered so the investigation into the .223 casing continued. On the 27th, detectives interviewed a 17year old juvenile male in rural Dakota County about his involvement in the shooting. During the interview, the juvenile admitted to bringing a borrowed assault rifle to the park. The juvenile admitted to being robbed of a large amount of marijuana and fired the .223 assault rifle toward the vehicle and occupants that robbed him as it left the park. The juvenile was arrested and held in the Anoka County Juvenile Detention Center. The juvenile faces charges of 2nd Degree Assault, Drive-by Shooting, and Reckless Discharge of a Firearm within a Municipality. The .223 assault rifle has been recovered (OW21-001287).

HIGHLIGHTS

In the early morning of October 2nd, Owatonna officers were called to a home in the 1900 block of Cedar Valley Drive for the report that someone may be breaking into a home. The reporting person received an alert on his phone from their surveillance system of a male walking around their property. The reporting person went outside to confront the male, only to see the male light their car on fire the fire also spread to the north side of the victim’s home. The Owatonna Fire Department arrived on scene and put out the fire. Surveillance video was obtained from the homeowner of the suspect pouring gasoline on the car, trash cans, and home and other surveillance from a convenience store was used to identify the suspect. On October 4th, the suspect was spotted at a near-by home by South Central Drug Investigation Unit agents. Surveillance was set up on the home while a search warrant was obtained. As officers began to execute the warrant, they were met by the suspect at the door and he was taken into custody. Beau Wanner, age 34 of Owatonna, has been charged with 1st Degree Arson and 3rd Degree Arson both felonies (OW21-001853).

On November 6th, our detective assigned to the MN Human Trafficking Task Force began conducting an undercover online investigation on the Whisper social media platform with an individual who believed he was conversing with a 15-year old girl. The user began steering the conversation in a sexual direction and sent explicit photographs to the detective. On November 8th, the individual contacted the detective again, planning a trip to Owatonna for sexual purposes. The detective was able to positively identify the individual and set up surveillance near Arby’s to intercept the male when he arrived in Owatonna. While on surveillance, the suspect was observed in the Arby’s drive thru and as he exited the lot, he was stopped. Jeremiah Young, age 36 of Annandale, was arrested and charged with Attempted 3rd Degree Criminal Sexual Conduct, Soliciting a Child Through Electronic Communication to Engage in Sexual Conduct, and Distributing via Electronic Communication Material that Relates/Describes Sexual Conduct to a Child (OW21-002134).

SCDIU FORFEITURES OPD CASH FORFEITURES

SOUTH CENTRAL DRUG INVESTIGATION UNIT

The South Central Drug Investigation Unit s (SCDIU) mission is to investigate and apprehend mid- to upper-level drug dealers and violent offenders in our communities. SCDIU agents build successful cases against dealers including drug sales and possession crimes. Agents also investigate violent crimes in our communities such as robberies, burglaries, homicides, gun crimes, and drug overdose cases. Frequently, search warrants are executed to recover illegal drugs. The agents work closely with other agencies to identify drug dealers who are selling across various jurisdictions or states. Agents receive crime tips and follow up with any criminal leads.

SCDIU agents are a small mobile unit that travel to wherever they are needed to make the most impact. The Owatonna Police Department is the fiscal agent of a four county multi-jurisdictional Violent Crime Enforcement Team (VCET) including Steele, Freeborn, Waseca, and Faribault counties. The SCDIU team serves 2,500 square miles and approximately 100,000 people and in 2021, consisted of a commander, administrative assistant, and 4 full-time agents. There are 13 law enforcement agencies that contribute funds to the unit, and it is also funded by state and federal grants. Recent trends in the past year have been an increase of opioid abuse including prescription meds, heroin, and the potent synthetic opioid called fentanyl. Due to unknown potency, overdoses can quickly occur and likely become fatal. Narcan is an opioid antidote that is used to reverse the fatal effects of opioids and can be administered by first responders.

VEHICLE FORFEITURES

Forfeiture is the process that a state agency uses to seize (take) property from an owner after someone is arrested, charged, or convicted of a specific crime. Usually this happens when someone is arrested by law enforcement for driving a motor vehicle while under the influence of controlled substances (drugs) or alcohol or after fleeing a police officer in a motor vehicle. The motor vehicle and other property can be seized. Your property, including cash, could also be seized during a drug arrest. Forfeiture of property is a civil issue that is separate from any criminal charges that may have been filed against someone. To get your property back, you may need to file paperwork with the court.

Law enforcement agencies have the authority with forfeited property to do the following: destroy property that is harmful to the public, retain property for official use by the agency, return the seized property upon court order or agreement, or forward property to a state or federal agency (usually the Drug Enforcement Administration), in addition to selling the forfeited property as an option.

The City of Owatonna Police Department utilizes The State of Minnesota, Department of Administration – Surplus Services auction site to sell vehicles that are retained by our department due to forfeiture guidelines. This website is located at Home Page | State of Minnesota Surplus Services (minnbid.org)

In 2021, Sixteen (16) vehicles were held for forfeiture. Six (6) vehicles are still in forfeiture process, one (1) Sold for Junk, Nine (9) returned to registered owner.

Detective Bureau Support

The property and evidence technician maintains the chain of custody for all evidentiary items submitted to the property room. Documenting the intake, storage, security, release, and disposal of all items is the primary focus of property room personnel.

The Owatonna Police Department handles evidence for both the Owatonna Police Department and the South Central Drug Investigation Unit.

PROPERTY & EVIDENCE

CRIME SCENE UNIT

The Crime Scene Unit assists the Patrol Division and Detective Bureau for the purpose of evidence identification, collection, and preservation. Crime scene technicians are trained in areas of crime scene photography, latent print development and recovery, biological and trace evidence recovery, and tool mark and footwear impression recovery. Members strive to obtain the most up to date training and equipment in crime scene processing. In 2021, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, crime scene technicians were unable to provide training to the Owatonna Middle School and the St Mary’s Forensics Classes.

COMMUNITY SERVICE

OFFICERS

Community Service Officers (CSOs) are uniformed, unarmed, civilian members of the Owatonna PD that engage in a variety of law enforcement / community related services including animal control complaints, parking enforcement, traffic control, private property accidents, motorist assists, ordinance enforcement, and countless other duties.

CSOs usually handle non-criminal, lower priority calls which do not require a licensed police officer with arrest powers, essentially freeing our licensed officers to concentrate on those incidents requiring their specific skill sets. CSOs are considered a blessing for both the department and community they serve as they are often the department members seen leading a parade, funeral procession, or giving a squad or facility tour. The CSO program is a very successful, cost -effective program that allows the Owatonna Police Department to continue providing several quality-of-life services to the citizens of our community.

In 2021, the CSO Unit was staffed by Brian Shaw, Gabrielle Flemming, and Julia Hansen.

PARKING CONTROL

Community Service Officers (CSOs) handle parking complaints and enforcement. They implemented a new parking control system in 2021 utilizing our Field Base Reporting System (FBR). This allowed all staff to use their MDC/ticket writers to write parking tickets. This new system permitted us to disregard ticket books that were handwritten and manually entered. The new FBR has provided an upgraded system developed to enhance our capabilities. Along with the new FBR system, we were also able to upgrade and implement a new parking fine payment process.

Owatonna Winter Parking Restrictions – November 15 – March 31

Use the new Owatonna Winter Parking Map WebApp to see where to park for the winter parking restrictions in Owatonna. The Winter Parking Map WebApp will show where parking is allowed and those areas that are exempt from the winter parking restriction. Easily search an address to determine the odd and even side.

Access to the Winter Parking Map WebApp can be found on our website or scan the code to the right with your phone.

Parking Fine Payment

As an enhanced service, payments for parking or ordinance violations may be made online with a transaction card through a payment vendor, AllPaid this option is available 24/7. Similarly, we are now able to take transaction card payments in person at the parking control window of the Law Enforcement Center. For those wishing to pay with a transaction card, a processing service fee is applied to your payment for this service. To avoid the service fee, we still accept cash or check.

In 2021, the OPD handled 359 parking complaint calls. A majority of parking complaint calls are handled by CSOs; these complaints can range from a variety of ordinance violations: blocking private driveway, parked over 48 hours, restrictive parking, recreational vehicles to junk vehicles. CSOs handle parking in the downtown area along with monitoring parking around the high school.

Owatonna Police Department 21

ANIMAL CONTROL

Animal Control helps to maintain the health and safety of pets and protects city residents from problem domesticated and undomesticated animals. The Owatonna Police Department Community Service Officers (CSOs) and Police Officers respond to animal complaints within the city that include barking dogs, animals at large, dog bites, amongst others. They also enforce the city ordinances regarding animals, educate the public on important issues concerning animals, and look after the safety and welfare of pets and their owners.

In 2021, the City of Owatonna approved and enacted Ordinance No. 1620 relating to animals, providing for regulation of potentially dangerous and dangerous dogs. The purpose for the ordinance is to adopt the provisions currently set by Minnesota Statutes and to provide local restrictions for keeping and maintaining a dog which has been designated to be potentially dangerous or dangerous. The ordinance also establishes a registration requirement with a registration fee and annual fees thereafter for dangerous and potentially dangerous dogs, as well as continues the City’s current practice of giving owners of dogs the right to appeal the declaration of a dog’s designation. The Owatonna Police Department had on record seven (7) dangerous dogs and six (6) potentially dangerous dogs. Follow us on Facebook at: Owatonna Animal Shelter - Home | Facebook

RESERVES

The Owatonna Police Department offers citizens a unique way to give back to their community by volunteering as a police reserve officer. This volunteer unit is made up of dedicated men and women who generously donate their time to help make our community a safer place. The Police Reserve Unit serves an important role in enhancing community safety by working alongside sworn police officers on various calls for service and participating in numerous community events. Reserve officers may also be called to assist during natural disasters or other emergencies that require additional personnel.

In 2021, the Reserve Unit volunteered nearly 400 hours where they assisted with community events including Shop with a Cop, Steele County Safety Camp, Night to Unite, parades, and school events as well as duties that included traffic control, house checks, and park patrols. In addition to these events, reserve officers also participated in monthly meetings/trainings to practice scenarios and skills such as first aid/CPR, defensive tactics, radio communications, and patrol vehicle operations. The Owatonna Police Department is looking to add additional volunteers to the Reserve Unit. Applicants of all ages and backgrounds who have an interest in law enforcement and a desire to serve their community are welcome to apply.

EXPLORERS

This was a great year for the Owatonna Police Explorers! We had 10 members who met on Sunday nights from September to April to train in law enforcement scenarios such as traffic stops, arrest and search, crime scene, hostage negotiation, field first aid, and more. Once again they were able to fundraise with Papa Murphy’s cards to gain funds for equipment and participating in state competition.

In 2021, the Explorers trained very hard and they were lucky enough to bring two teams to the competition in Rochester where they competed against hundreds of other explorers from around the state. Both teams took home a total of 9 awards! Team awards included 1st place in Arrest and Search, 1st place in White Collar Crime, 1st place in Burglary Response, 2nd place in DWI and Field Sobriety, 3rd place in Interview and Interrogation, 4th place in Arrest and Search, and 5th place in Traffic Crash. Individual Awards included 3rd place in the female 5K run (Abby Morriss) and 1st place in the Police Knowledge Exam (Dietrich Piepho).

It was a perfect night. The sun was shining, BBQ smoke filled backyard patios, kids were playing, neighbors gathered on lawns, coned off city blocks, driveways, and garages all in the spirit to meet and greet one another. We build stronger neighborhoods, we grow and strengthen relationships, and everyone unites with our Owatonna Police Officers who came out in full -strength. NighttoUniteis a crime prevention program that occurs throughout communities in Minnesota on the first Tuesday of August. We hope to see you next year!

Our officers continued with the longstanding tradition on Night to Unite by collecting school supplies for the Children’s Remedial Fund of Steele County. The fund is a program intended to provide financial support to eligible families who have children with medical, dental, vision, hearing, school supplies, and winter clothing needs. The photo to the left shows the collected donations in 2021 and how our community members stepped up in a huge way!

Community Relations

Daycare businesses are a popular outreach stop for our officers. On this morning, Officer Joel Hunt and Community Service Officer Julia Hansen stopped by a home daycare for the kids to see their squad cars, our aerial drone, how to dust for finger prints, and to hand out JuniorOfficer stickers. Would your daycare kids like to become JuniorOfficers? If so, you can contact Pam Roberts at 507-774-7200.

Kyle Martin patrolling our beautiful down town Owatonna!

In November, the Owatonna Police Department faced the Owatonna Fire Department in their annual BattleoftheBadgeevent where they had a friendly competition and raised money for the Salvation Army Red Kettle Campaign. The final results left the firefighters taking the win with $550 in their kettle but the police didn’t disappoint with raising $496 in their kettle, making for a grand total of $1,046. Thanks to everyone who stopped out and showed their support! Captain Josh Sorensen and Officers Joel Hunt, Derrik Quinlan, and Jeremy Katz spent the evening before Thanksgiving at Hy-Vee ringing the bell.

It was a beautiful night in downtown Owatonna on December 3rd at the annual HolidayLightParade The many floats ran down Cedar Avenue around Central Park where the lights were lit for winter!

Truck to Trunk

Andrew Van Osdale

GROUP A CRIMES

In 2021, the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension (BCA) launched a new public database called the Minnesota Crime Data Explorer, a modernized tool from which current crime data can be obtained at any time. It contains much more detailed information than had been available in the past because of the concurrent transition by Minnesota law enforcement agencies to using the National Incident-Based Reporting System (NIBRS). Group A offenses are categorized as crimes against persons, property, and society. While past reporting contained summary data about the most serious offense associated with an incident, the updated incident-based reporting includes more details on all crimes associated with an incident, as well as detailed data about victims and offenders which leads to the ultimate goal of greater transparency about incidents that occur in Minnesota communities. This enables criminal justice entities, researchers, and the public to better understand, respond to, and prevent incidents in our communities!

GROUP B CRIMES

25,000 49,999 POPULATION

A crime rate describes the number of crimes reported to law enforcement per 100,000 total population. A city’s individual crime rate is derived by dividing the total number of Group A (see list of Group A crimes on page 27) reported crimes occurring within the jurisdiction by the city’s population; the result is then multiplied by 100,000. In Owatonna, our general crime rate is 2,904 per 100,000 general population with 51.6% cleared.

DRUG TASK FORCE REGIONS

South Central Drug Task Force

OFFENSES CLEARED

Steele, Waseca, Faribault, Freeborn

Population = 98,498

Total Narcotic Arrests = 353

Narcotic Arrests per Capita = .0036

MN River Valley Drug Task Force

Watonwan, Nicollet, Blue Earth

Population = 114,353

Total Narcotic Arrests = 444

Narcotic Arrests per Capita = .0039

SE MN Narcotics & Gang Task Force

Olmsted, Winona, Goodhue, Dodge, Mower, Fillmore, Houston, Wabasha

Population = 373,370

Total Narcotic Arrests = 1,030

Narcotic Arrests per Capita = .0028

Cannon River Valley Task Force

Rice, Le Sueur

Population = 94,240

Total Narcotic Arrests = 318

Narcotic Arrests per Capita=.0034

NARCOTICS