JUST THE FACTS

May 2, 2025 Volume 16 Issue 18

THIS WEEK'S IN CUSTODY ARRESTS

Dennis Jackson was formally charged with domestic assault by strangulation stemming from an incident on April 26th.
Sherissa Jones was formally charged with 3rd degree DWI stemming from an accident investigation on April 29th.
Jacob Miller was formally charged with 3rd degree DWI and traffic collision- leaving the scene of an accident, stemming from a hit and run crash on April 30th.
Jordan Jones was formally charged with fleeing a police officer in motor vehicle and reckless driving stemming from an incident on April 30th. Jones fled from an officer who was attempting to stop him for speed and loud exhaust. The pursuit originated on the 600 block of Bridge St. The suspect drove at speeds up to 130 mph before he entered the city of Waseca and fled on foot and was captured a short time later.

PUBLIC SERVICE ANNOUNCEMENT

The Owatonna Police Department would like to remind drivers to pay attention specifically in this case to school bus stop arms and children crossing the road.  This picture depicts a close call we recently investigated.  Now that weather is getting much nicer, more and more kids will be out and about on scooters and bikes making our attention to the roadway key to a safe rest of the year.

Owatonna Police Explorers Earn Honors at State Competition

The Owatonna Police Explorer program continues to make a positive impact on young individuals in the community by providing youth, ages 14 to 21, with hands-on, scenario-based training that introduces them to the world of law enforcement. Explorers gain experience in key areas such as traffic stops, search and arrest procedures, suspicious activity investigations, domestic crisis intervention, burglary response, traffic crash handling, retail theft, community policing and even hostage negotiation.

This year, the Owatonna Police Explorers proudly competed in the 50th Anniversary Minnesota Law Enforcement Explorer State Competition held in Rochester, Minnesota. The event brought together over 350 Explorers from approximately 60 law enforcement agencies across the state. It was a weekend of learning, growth, and spirited competition. Owatonna’s team performed exceptionally well, earning third place in the Traffic Stops scenario which demonstrated their skills and training. In addition, Explorer Abigail Morriss made a remarkable achievement by taking first place in the 5K run which showcased her determination and athleticism.

The Owatonna Police Department would like to extend congratulations to all of this year’s dedicated Explorers: Dakoda Duchene, Abigail Morriss, Kam Smith, Tyler Sheehan, Omar Dahir, Carter Quinlan, Becca Hansen, Sophia Cupkie and Kaden Keller. Each one has demonstrated commitment, discipline, and teamwork throughout the year.

This year also marks a bittersweet milestone as Officer Melissa Michael completes her final year as the lead advisor for the Owatonna Police Explorers. After ten years of leadership and mentorship, Officer Michael is stepping down from her role. Her dedication to shaping the next generation of law enforcement professionals and community leaders has been invaluable. The department and the entire Explorer team thank her for her decade of service, guidance and encouragement.

As the program looks ahead, it remains committed to building character, developing leadership, and providing youth with the tools and confidence to succeed—whether in law enforcement or any other noble profession they choose to pursue.