JUST THE FACTS

August 29th, 2025 Volume 16 Issue 35

• Brian Daniel Mitchell was formally charged with Domestic Abuse No Contact Order Violation.
• Shannon Michael Montanye was formally charged with DWI.
• Heleena Marie Schaub was formally charged with Domestic Assault.
• Zoe Willow Conrad was formally charged with Domestic Assault.
• Melanie Lynn Pelot was formally charged with DWI. 

OPD FACEBOOK POST GETS OVER 100,000 VIEWS

Justin Lee Himle was arrested on August 26^th and formally charged this week with DWI, Endanger Child-Situation Could Cause Harm or Death, and Speed. Himle was traveling southbound on Mosher Avenue when an OPD Officer stopped him for traveling at extremely high speeds in the 30 MPH zone.  To top things off, Himle was impaired and had a 10-year-old in the car.  OPD posted on the City of Owatonna Facebook Page information about the arrest shortly after the incident and received over 100,000 views since the posting.  OPD has fielded several driving complaints around the city related to speeding, careless driving, and loud vehicle complaints.  OPD continues to focus on these issues and is taking enforcement action to help assure traffic safety within the city.

SCHOOL SAFETY TIPS 

With the 2025/2026 school year approaching fast, the Owatonna Police Department would like to remind everyone of these crucial back-to-school safety tips.  Drivers should be extra vigilant in school zones and around bus stops and obey all traffic laws including speed limits and stopping for buses with flashing lights. These efforts will help ensure our students will remain safe while traveling to and from schools.

• Obey School Zone Speed Limits:

Be mindful of reduced speed limits in school zones.

• Stop for School Buses:

Always stop for school buses with flashing red lights and extended stop signs, as this indicates children are either getting on or off. 

• Be Alert for Children:

Children can be unpredictable, so be extra cautious in school zones, near bus stops, and in residential areas. 

• Avoid Distractions:

Refrain from using cell phones or other distractions while driving in school zones. 

• Don't Pass Stopped Buses:

It is illegal to pass a school bus from behind or from either direction if the bus is stopped for loading or unloading children. 

• Use Designated Drop-off/Pick-up Zones:

If driving your child to school, use designated drop-off and pick-up areas to avoid congestion and potential hazards.