Apple Valley Police Department

APPLE VALLEY POLICE DEPARTMENT2020 Annual Report

TABLE OF CONTENTS

DEPARTMENT ADMINISTRATION 3

Chief’s Message 4

Employee Roster 5

Organizational Chart 6

Financial Summary 7

UNIFORMED SERVICES 8

Patrol Officers 9

South Metro SWAT 10

Toward Zero Deaths 11

K-9 Unit 12

Special Enforcement Team 14

Drug Recognition Expert 15

Retail Crime Officer 16

Community Impact Unit 17

Community Service Officers 18

School Resource Officers 19

Field Training Program 20

Intern and Mentor Program 21

SUPPORT SERVICES 22

Investigations Unit 23

Electronic Crimes Task 24

Drug Task Force 25

Special Operations Team 26

Records Unit 27

PROGRAMS 28

Citizens Academy 29

Night to Unite 30

Community Out-Reach 31

Explorer Post 32

Police Chaplains 33

360 Communities/Assault Review 34

EMPLOYEE RECOGNITION 35

RETIREMENTS AND NEW HIRES 42

STATISTICAL INFORMATION 51

IN CLOSING 59

THE 2020 ANNUAL REPORT OF THE APPLE VALLEY POLICE DEPARTMENT

DEPARTMENTADMINISTRATION

THE 2020 ANNUAL REPORT OF THE APPLE VALLEY POLICE DEPARTMENT PAGE 3

Captain

Greg Dahlstrom

Police Administrative

Manager

Steph Mellesmoen

Captain

Nick Frances

Chief

Jon Rechtzigel

WELCOME TO THE AVPD ANNUAL REPORT

On behalf of the Apple Valley Police Department, it is my honor to submit the 2020 Annual Report. 2020 was a year like no other. In addition to delivering the best possible services to our citizens, we did so while operating in an environment which included a pandemic and civil unrest as major obstacles.

The men and women of this department practiced social distancing, used PPE in their daily duties, and found themselves providing security and in some instances, riot control in other jurisdictions. Throughout the year, courage, integrity, and professionalism were the traits displayed by the members of the Apple Valley Police Department.

As I write this letter, we are approaching some sort of normalcy as the pandemic wanes and the civil unrest has somewhat settled. We do however, face continuing challenges brought on by the past year’s unfortunate events.

State statutes addressing use of force and mandates for crisis response and cultural proficiency have been enacted by the State of Minnesota which require extensive changes to how we train our officers to respond to the diverse call types we encounter. Fortunately, the AVPD has always been a leader in many of those areas. This has been a huge advantage as some of the changes were already made or underway.

In the 2020 Annual Report, please note the many programs and outstanding accomplishments of our department and realize this is who we are. “Spectemur Agendo” —let us be judged by our deeds.

The members of the Apple Valley Police Department truly appreciate the trust and support afforded to us by the City Council, city staff, and members of the community. In return, we pledge to deliver professional, quality service to our citizens.

Respectfully submitted,

Jon Rechtzigel

Chief of Police

A message from Police Chief Jon Rechtzigel


Officers (42)• Todd Soderholm

• Jon Holle

• Brian Bone

• Valerie Holes

• Tommie Booth

• Mike Thelen

• Kurt Schultz

• Tara Becker

• Joel Horazuk

• Brian Plantz

• Shane Klokonos

• Nic Wolf

• Marcus Smith

• Zach Broughten

• Dan Schyma

• Justin Drogseth

• Jeff Weber

• Peter Meuwissen

• Greggory Neumann

• David Engel

• Joel Pogatchnik

• Cody Yard

• James Gibbs

• Cory Christianson

• Kasey DeJonker

• Tony Parker

• Wil Hooper

• David Fry

• Nicole Wilson

• Brian Booth

• Kailie Hinkle

• Sean Marben

• Colleen Strohmayer

• April Ehmke

• Dylan Ordorff

• Jordan Mack

• Miranda Demo

• Alex Witkowski

• Christopher Lundberg

• Eric Kline

• David Gysbers

• Jonathan LeClaire

Sergeants (9)

• Jeff Smith

• Peter Matos

• Jim Gummert

• Jason Weishaar

• Adam Tschida

• David Virden

• Adam Keeler

• Alan Spillers

• Josh Gerving

Records (7)

• Terry McNulty

• Missy Nelson

• Alice House

• Karen Shaw

• Shonda Sauter

• Anne Thielen

• Kim Kongnso

CSOs (2)

• Justin Wagner

• Alex Walker

Maintenance (1)

• Bruce Daubanton

Crime Prevention (1)

• Pam Walter

Property Clerk (1)

• Denis Schweitzer


2020 AVPD OFFICERS AND ADMINISTRATION

Administration (4)

• Jon Rechtzigel

• Nick Dahlstrom

• Greg Dahlstrom

• Steph Mellesmoen

ORGANIZATIONAL CHART


Police Chief

Support Services Captain

Detective Sergeant

Detectives (4)

Drug Task Force (1)

Electronic Crimes Task Force (1)

Property Clerk (1)

CIU Sergeant

CIU Officer (1)

Retail/Business Officer (1)

School Liaison (3)

Crime Prevention (1)

Police Administrative Manager

Lead Records Technician

Records Technicians (6)

Patrol Captain

Patrol Sergeants (7)

Patrol Officers (30)

Special Enforcement Team (2)

Community Service Officers (2)

Police Chaplains (6)

Apple Valley Police Department

PAGE 6

FINANCIAL SUMMARY

2020 Adopted Budget = $9,551,300• Capital Outlay = $262,000

(Including Animal Control and Civil Defense)

PERSONNEL COSTS

CAPITAL OUTLAY

OTHER OPERATING

COSTS

2020 BUDGET DISTRIBUTION


UNIFORMED SERVICES


PATROL OFFICERS


Our patrol officers represent the police

department in virtually all aspects of

policing visible to the public. They

respond to calls, enforce traffic laws, and

serve our community in emergency

situations around the clock, 365 days a

year.

Apple Valley’s patrol officers serve with

pride and a tremendous amount of

gratitude for the support we receive from

this community. The global pandemic of

2020 changed most aspects of our lives,

but patrol officers remained committed to

tirelessly serving our community.

Department staff reviewed our response

models and offered remote or “contact-

free” opportunities to report crimes or

request service. An electronic reporting

method was developed.

Despite the pandemic, our patrol

officers responded to countless critical

incidents throughout the year and still

made time to connect with our

community any chance they had.

SOUTH METRO SWAT

South Metro SWAT is a tactical team comprised of approximately 50 individuals from law enforcement and EMS agencies throughout Dakota and Rice Counties. Officers and deputies from 13 law enforcement agencies come together to form a highly skilled and capable group, able to resolve some of the most critical incidents law enforcement faces today. All personnel attend training at least once a month and one week a year at a facility out of state.

The team covers approximately 1,066 square miles and serves a population of approximately 340,000 residents.

In 2020, the team was activated 27 times for various situations. These included seven high-risk warrant services, seven barricaded suspects, seven civil disturbances, two VIP protection details, and four partial team deployments with the armored bearcat to assist another jurisdiction.

A key component of the team’s success are the crisis negotiators. This subdivision of the SWAT team train in communication and de-escalation techniques needed to peacefully resolve tense and dangerous operations.

Lastly, four tactical paramedics from the MN Health-Fairview are assigned to South Metro SWAT. Tactical medics provide immediate pre-hospital care and tactical medicine training to members of the team.

AVPD supported the team with five operators and two negotiators. Sergeant Adam Tschida leads the team as the commander. Officers Gregg Neumann, Jim Gibbs, Cory Christianson, and Officer Sean Marben are assigned as operators.

Officers Kasey Short and Joel Horazuk part of the negotiations team.


POLICE K-9 TEAM

In 2020, the Apple Valley Police Department operated with three K-9s at various times of the year.

In 2020 we were thankful to add another K9 and handler to the team. Thanks to a generous donation from McDonough K-9 training, Bergil and Officer Yard joined the team. Bergil came to us just in time, as Duke needed to retire a little early due to a health issue.

Two of our officers have taken on additional duties to support the team. Officer Sean Marben has taken a vested interest in the K-9 program and has become a valuable team member. He volunteers as a decoy to allow for intense and vital training scenarios. He is also a trusted enough member that he assists in the care of the K-9s when necessary and helps to keep training and boarding facilities in great shape.

Officer Drogseth has taken over as the point of contact for the South Metro K-9 Training Group, leading the way for continued excellence in K-9 programs of local agencies. At the most recent K-9 training day, even with a smaller turnout due to COVID-19, there were still 10 agencies with K-9 teams who attended the training. Training included high-risk felony stops, building searches, environmental acclimation, and narcotics detections. It is through continued training and learning from experienced handlers that we hope to continue our reputation of having hard-working K-9 teams here at Apple Valley.

A team is only as good as the support around it. We are thankful for support from our City Council and the citizens of Apple Valley; we couldn’t do it without you.


K-9 DUKE


Officer Broughten and his K-9 partner Duke

Duke is a German Shepherd dog that was born

in Slovakia and turned 8 years old in 2020.

Duke has been a Police K-9 since 2014. Duke

and his partner, Officer Zach Broughten, trained

at the St. Paul Police K-9 School. The program

was 12 weeks long and included training in

building searches, tracking, article searches,

agility, apprehensions, narcotic detection and

obedience.

This K-9 team graduated K-9 School on May 22,

2014 and began working patrol shortly after.

The team deployed a total of 7 times during 2020

for two building searches, one track and four

narcotic sniffs.

Duke officially retired from service on November

10, 2020 and now happily lives at home with his

forever partner Officer Broughten.

K-9 KODA


Officer Drogseth and Koda

Koda is a Belgian Malinois born in

Belgium and turned 4 years old in

2020. Koda has been a Police K-9

since 2018. Koda and his partner,

Officer Justin Drogseth, trained at the

St. Paul Police K-9 School. The

program was 12 weeks long and

included training in building searches,

tracking, article searches, agility,

apprehensions, narcotic detection

and obedience. This K-9 team

graduated K-9 School on May 24,

2018 and began working patrol

shortly after.

The team deployed a total of 21 times

during 2020 for four building

searches, seven track/area searches

and seven narcotic sniffs (one of

which led to an eventual seizure of 15

pounds of methamphetamine.)

K-9 BERGIL


Officer Yard with his K-9 partner Bergil

The Apple Valley Police Department is proud to

announce our newest addition to the K-9

program: Bergil from the Brick Mill, a German

Shepherd born April 2019 in the Czech Republic.

Bergil started training at a young age and was

trained by the breeder in obedience and handler

protection prior to leaving the Czech Republic for

further training in Minnesota. Bergil and his

partner, Officer Cody Yard, graduated from

training on November 20, 2020 and quickly

started full K-9 patrol duties

During their time in the Basic K-9 Patrol school

they completed 14 weeks of building searches,

article searches, suspect tracking, obedience,

agility, narcotics detection, and have certified

with the United States Police Canine Association

and National Police Canine Association.

Officer Yard and Bergil are excited to be working

patrol. They will be serving the community and

surrounding agencies on the overnight shift.

The team deployed a total of 6 times during

2020 including one building search, one track

and four narcotic sniffs.

SPECIAL ENFORCEMENT TEAM

The Apple Valley Police Department has a specialty unit that handles traffic complaints, conducts tobacco and alcohol compliance checks, and predatory offender registration compliance. The Special Enforcement Team (SET) falls within our Community Impact Unit. 2020 proved to be a difficult year for our community and many of the “regular” happenings and special events were non-existent.

Because of widespread bar and restaurant limitations and closures, compliance checks were reduced to complaint based. Our department also initiated an emergency schedule during the year and all specialty positions, including SET, were assigned to patrol. When stay-at-home orders were in effect, traffic volumes were greatly decreased. Late night bar traffic was also non-existent, as there were greatly reduced night time bar and restaurant opportunities.

The Special Enforcement Team is comprised of Officer Nicole Guadalajara and Officer Brian Booth. Sgt. David Virden supervised them.


DRUG RECOGNITION EVALUATOR


In the State of Minnesota, there are 92

agencies and 197 officers dedicated to

the Drug Recognition Evaluator (DRE)

program. The Apple Valley Police

Department has two certified drug

recognition experts; Detective Joel

Horazuk (2008) and Officer Pete

Meuwissen (2018). Both of these officers

have evolved in the DRE program to

become instructors.

DREs use their specialized training to

detect impairment in drivers when

alcohol has been ruled out. While the

primary use of a DRE is traffic related,

sometimes DREs assist on medical

emergencies, crisis complaints, and

other calls for service. DREs are trained

to distinguish between the effects of

seven different drug categories using the

same systematic twelve step process in

all circumstances.

DRE evaluations were slowed in 2020

due to the pandemic because

a DRE evaluation requires extended

close contact with an unknown person.

A breath test is a required element of the

evaluation and it was believed this

activity was high risk because the breath

test machine uses an exhaust cleansing

method between breaths.

As our world returns to normal, so will

the work of our DREs, who already have

classes planned to teach new officers

these valuable skills.

COMMUNITY SERVICE OFFICERS

Community Service Officers (CSOs) are non-

sworn, uniformed employees whose duties

do not require the attention of a licensed

police officer. CSOs are full-time college

students enrolled in a law enforcement

program. They work part-time for the police

department.

Their primary duties include assisting

stranded motorists, investigating animal

health and nuisance issues, traffic direction,

fingerprinting, transporting evidence, and

vehicle lockout assists. In 2020 the CSOs

responded to or assisted with 2,546 calls for

service.


CSO Alex WalkerCSO Justin Wagner

FIELD TRAINING PROGRAM


The field training officer program (FTO) provides training to new recruits and is specific to the Apple Valley Police Department. All newly hired officers must complete field training. The program is approximately 12 weeks, or roughly 400 hours. There is also a two week academy that is run prior to new officers even getting into a patrol car. The academy covers various topics to include firearms, defensive tactics, policy and procedure, and administrative tasks. The new officer is then paired with a training officer who teaches, coaches and grades the performance of the new officer in a wide variety of topics.

Only after successful completion of the program is the new officer allowed to work alone and become an official member of AVPD. The officers are then placed on probation for a full year and evaluated on their performance. Despite the challenges of the pandemic, three Officers were hired in 2020 and successfully completed the FTO program, Chris Lundberg, Eric Kline, and David Gysbers. After many years and hours dedicated to training, Officers Dan Schyma and Jeff Weber moved on from the training program. Officers Dylan Ordorff and Nicole Guadalajara were welcomed as training officers in 2020. They join Mike Thelen, Nic Wolf, Dave Engel, Joel Pogatchnik, Pete Meuwissen, Gregg Neumann, Dave Fry, and Joel Horazuk as current training officers for the department.

INTERN AND MENTOR PROGRAM


Intern Program

The Apple Valley Police Department offers an intern program for students enrolled in a criminal justice college program or related field. This internship allows those in a criminal justice field who have an interest in law enforcement to experience it from a first hand perspective. Students are able to experience many of the units in the Apple Valley Police Department such as patrol, investigations, K-9 program and many others. This program varies in length but most are between 400 and 500 hours. Overseen by a Sergeant, a team of officers work with interns to provide them with a great real world experience in contemporary policing.

Mentor Program

The Apple Valley Police Department also offers a mentorship program that allows students age 18 and older to have an experience in the Criminal Justice Field. Applicants in this program are required to be enrolled in school at the time of acceptance. On average, the mentorship program takes approximately 40 hours over the course of 2-4 weeks to complete. Students will have exposure to patrol, investigations, K-9 program, special enforcement team, NCOP, and our community service officer program. This takes place through meetings, projects, and job shadow ride alongs.

SUPPORT SERVICES


COMMUNITY IMPACT UNIT

The Community Impact Unit is a dedicated resource that serves as a relational presence in our neighborhoods to address crime issues and promote crime prevention and education.

Officer Marcus Smith and Crime Prevention Specialist Pam Walter make up the core of the Community Impact Unit. Sergeant David Virden supervises the unit.

Their mission is to be a relational and educational presence in our community and immediately address crime and quality of life issues at their root. They work to solve problems in our neighborhoods and multi-housing complexes and also develop community outreach activities.

Residential Rental Property

A primary duty of the Community Impact Unit is to promote crime free multi-housing. The City of Apple Valley is home to approximately 40 apartment/townhome communities and over 1,500 residential rental properties.

The Community Impact Unit promotes the Crime Free Multi-Housing program which educates landlords and tenants about responsible renting to keep properties free from illegal activity. As part of the program, the police department holds monthly manager/owner coalition meetings that feature topics pertinent to owning and managing rental properties.

Complexes active in the program also receive incident summaries of activity on their property. By sharing this information, management is more aware of what is happening on the property and better able to deal with issues in a timely manner.

The City of Apple Valley has a rental registration ordinance that requires all residential rental property to be registered. Registrations can be completed online at https://goo.gl/78pWqG. There is no fee to register. Registration gives the City the necessary information to identify rental properties and their owners to help address issues with rental properties.


https://goo.gl/78pWqG

RETAIL CRIME OFFICER

Officer Weber assisted businesses with premise

surveys, preparing and executing emergency

plans, and alcohol server training. He was a

point of contact for businesses navigating a

number of new regulations due to the pandemic.

He also served as the primary resource when

businesses approach the police department to

partner on causes or special needs. Examples

include partnering with Target and Walmart for

Shop with a Cop, a program that helps families

identified by the community as experiencing

financial stress. The families are invited to shop

for gifts, wrap them and enjoy fellowship and

food with the businesses and police. Donors to

Shop with a Cop include the Apple Valley

American Legion, Target, Walmart, Farmers

Insurance and several citizens.


The Retail Crime Officer is a dedicated

resource that serves as a relational

presence in the business community to

address crime issues and promote crime

prevention and education.

Officer Jeff Weber served as the Retail

Crime Officer and was supervised by

Sergeant David Virden.

Officer Weber is also a member of the

Twin Cities Organized Retail Crime

Association (TCORCA), an organization

that facilitates the secure sharing of crime

information between law enforcement and

retail establishments.

SCHOOL RESOURCE OFFICERS

The Apple Valley Police Department partners

with Independent School District 196 to

assign three School Resource Officers

(SROs) to Apple Valley high schools and

middle schools. This cost sharing partnership

allows SROs to be in the school buildings to

handle a variety of youth related issues

including criminal investigations, addressing

unruly conduct, and educating students and

staff on public safety and criminal justice

topics.

The presence of an SRO in school district

buildings also provides school staff with a

personal contact who understands how the

school environment and ongoing public safety

issues connect.

The SRO assignment is a significant

commitment for officers. They are involved

with students well beyond day-to-day

activities. SROs spend time with the students

at dances and extracurricular activities. This

presence has a positive impact on students

by building relationships and approachability.

In 2020, Officer Peter Meuwissen served as

the SRO at Eastview High School, Officer

Anthony Parker served at Apple Valley High

School and Officer Gregg Neumann served

Apple Valley’s three middle schools. The

SRO’s assisted ISD 196 navigate the

challenges if COVID-19 and were assigned to

patrol when school took place remotely.


2020 SRO Calls For Service

Apple Valley High School 101

Eastview High School 116

Scott Highlands Middle School 17

Falcon Ridge Middle School 17

Valley Middle School 49

School of Environmental Studies 14

Alterative Learning Center 7

SRO Anthony Parker

SRO Gregg Neumann

SRO Peter Meuwissen

CRIME PREVENTION AND COMMUNITY OUTREACH

With the onset of the pandemic in 2020 we had to cancel many of our regular outreach programs. The following is a highlight of what we did in place of canceled programs to connect with Apple Valley residents.

Luckily, we were able to hold our annual teen academy prior to everything being shut down. It ran January 30 to March 12. We had 17 kids registered and again partnered with the Rosemount Police Department. Courses included a tour, booking process, use of force with Laser Shot, DCC, crime scene investigation, Drug Task Force and SWAT. We also hosted a successful medical disposal event on October 24, 2020

Our neighborhood outreach went uninterrupted by sending out info on crime trends, prevention measures and program offerings for the year via our neighborhood email network and social media like Facebook and Twitter.

We sent out numerous emails on theft from motor vehicle, burglary and catalytic converter theft crime trends, how to report suspicious activity, crosswalk safety, distracted driving, scams, solicitors, fireworks and prevention info on safe holiday shopping among others.

We offered virtual car seat safety checks until the weather was warm enough to be able to do seat checks outside. We resumed in-person car seat checks in June 2020. We continue to offer seat checks and have had an increased amount due to several nearby agencies not offering them due to the pandemic.

Our multi housing outreach continued by hosting a Zoom meeting with apartment managers to keep in touch. Because Officer Smith was unable to continue to do site visits, Crime Prevention Specialist Walter started emailing weekly calls for service to each complex so they were aware of incidents occurring on their property, as well as providing support via phone or email. Additionally, she has sent out emails to managers on crime trends and pandemic info as it relates to housing issues.

Home premise surveys have been offered throughout the pandemic. This is especially important because of a trend in residential burglaries. Our department sent out information informing residents that we continue to offer home premise surveys; trained staff conducted a couple of these site visits in 2020.


INVESTIGATIONS UNIT

The Investigation Unit’s primary responsibility is to follow up on crimes committed where the suspect is unknown or difficult to locate. Detectives also take the primary lead in major case investigations such as homicides, arson, robbery, burglary, and criminal sexual conduct. Detectives conduct interviews, collect evidence, process legal requests, execute search warrants, and conduct follow-up on cases to ensure the criminal cases meet the necessary thresholds for criminal charging.

In 2020, Sergeant James Gummert, Detectives Dan Schyma, Brian Bone, Tara Becker, Jim Gibbs, Jon Holle, and Dave Fry staffed the Investigative Unit. Denis Schweitzer was responsible for managing the police department’s property and evidence room.

In 2020 the Investigations Unit was forced to change some of its investigative techniques due

to the COVID-19 pandemic. However, those changes did not affect our ability to work with various local, state, military, and federal law enforcement authorities leading to various criminal charges and arrests in 2020.


Detectives investigated a total of 503

cases in 2020. The most common types

of cases include:

Assault 39

Backgrounds 70

Theft 74

Criminal Sexual Conduct 43

Financial Fraud 74

Child Protection 27

DAKOTA COUNTY ELECTRONIC CRIMES TASK FORCE

In 2020, The Apple Valley Police Department continued to be a major player in the support of the Dakota County Electronic Crimes Task Force, (DCECTF). The goals of the DCECTF have been to reduce turnaround times for digital forensic examinations, and provide real time data during in-progress investigations allowing officers and investigators on scene to gain valuable information which in turn allows for better case management.

Detective Shane Klokonos was assigned to the DCECTF during 2020. In 2020, the Apple Valley Police Department submitted 42 of the 327 cases reviewed by the DCECTF. Detective Klokonos was assigned 57 of the 327 cases reviewed by the DCECTF. Cases submitted by the Apple Valley Police Department included sexual assaults, child pornography, domestic abuse/violence, financial fraud, and drug crimes.


Detective Klokonos’ work can range from the processing of forensic data at the scene of a crime, or months after the crime occurred in his office at the police department, or at the DCECTF offices in Hastings. His work and knowledge is constantly evolving to meet the ever changing technological world. For the recognition of his work as being a top forensic examiners in the United States, Detective Klokonos was presented with an award from the United States Secret Service.

DAKOTA COUNTY DRUG TASK FORCE

The Dakota County Drug Task Force (DCDTF) is a group of dedicated agents assigned to investigate narcotics, weapons, and violent crime cases. Each member agency contributes at least one agent. Each agent is a highly trained member of the team. Most agents have several years of patrol, investigative, and tactical experience before their assignment. In addition, each agent attends a two week narcotics investigation school sponsored by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA).

Agents often start working cases originating out of Dakota County and they regularly spread out into other cities and counties. Agents also find themselves working side by side with state and federal authorities during the investigation of their cases.


In 2020 Detective Joel Horazuk transitioned

out of the DCDTF after four years and was

replaced by Detective Dylan Ordorff. Prior to

Detective Horazuk’s departure he was

recognized by the United States Attorney’s

Office for his tremendous work.

Joel was one of sixty-eight law enforcement

officials honored in the second annual U.S.

Attorney’s Office “Excellence in the Pursuit of

Justice” Awards. Per the U.S. Attorney’s Office,

“Sixty-eight law enforcement officials and

community leaders are being honored for their

outstanding work and selfless contributions in

the pursuit of truth and justice.”

DAKOTA COUNTY SPECIAL OPERATIONS TEAM

The Dakota County Special Operations Team (DCSOT) is a cooperative effort between public safety agencies in Dakota County. The team specializes in areas such as technical rope rescue, hazardous materials, confined space rescue, trench rescue, structural collapse, wide area searches and weapons of mass destruction response.

The team consists of 36 members from police, fire and EMS agencies. Team members operate as highly skilled rescuers while ensuring tactical safety and crime scene preservation. DCSOT is available to assist agencies in Dakota County for incidents that require additional or specialized rescue skills.

DCSOT is also a part of the Minnesota Task Force One (MN-TF1), a collaborative effort between Minneapolis, St. Paul, Edina and Rochester Fire Departments. MN-TF1 can respond statewide to urban search and rescue (USAR) and structural collapse incidents.

DCSOT was called out four times in 2020 including hazmat incidents in Eagan and Rice County, as well as two rope rescue operations in Hastings.

Officer Brian Plantz is assigned to DCSOT and was trained in the areas of trench rescue and structural collapse in 2020.


RECORDS UNIT

The Records Unit consists of five full-time and one part-time Records Technicians, a Lead Records Technician, and the Police Administrative Manager.

2020 was an interesting year to say the least. Never before would we have considered having employees work remotely. In March of 2020 our IT department worked feverishly to configure laptops for our Records Technicians. We started a rotation of working remotely and continue to have employees who work from home.

Record Technicians are responsible for a multitude of tasks. Some of these tasks include; data entry in the Records Management System, referral of cases to our city and county attorneys’ offices for prosecution, transcription of audio statements, processing requests from the public for information, processing hand gun applications and compiling and reporting departmental statistics and keeping up with the always changing technology.


Back Row Left to right: Records Technician Missy Nelson, Front Desk

Receptionist Karen Shaw, Records Technician Shonda Sauter; Records

Technician Kim Kongnso, Records Technician Anne Thielen.

Front Row Left to Right: Lead Records Technician Terry McNulty, Police

Administrative Manager Steph Mellesmoen, Records Technician Alice House.


PROGRAMS

EXPLORER POST

Since 1989 the Apple Valley Police Department has sponsored a Law Enforcement Explorer Program. Participants in this program meet weekly with members of the Apple Valley Police Department to discuss a variety of topics and acquire the skills necessary to be successful in law enforcement.

Some of those topics include: domestic crisis response, white collar crime investigation, traffic stops, and hostage negotiation.

Explorers who choose to participate can receive an introduction to firearms safety and pistol shooting fundamentals. The firearm training has proven to be a rewarding experience for both the participant and advisors.

In addition to learning new skills, the members of the explorer post are committed to serving the citizens of Apple Valley through a variety of volunteer opportunities to include adopting Keller Park, assisting in the mid-winter festival, and other public engagements.

Our post is currently comprised of fourteen bright, knowledgeable, dedicated explorers who are eager to learn about law enforcement and what it means to be of service to the City of Apple Valley.

You can learn more about the Exploring program here https://goo.gl/kan5Yz.


https://goo.gl/kan5Yz

POLICE CHAPLAINS

Since 1997, the Apple Valley Police Department Chaplains have been a valuable resource in assisting with difficult and sensitive situations including families in crisis and death notifications. The volunteer Chaplains are available 24 hours a day to help officers. They remain with family members as long as necessary, freeing up officers to tend to other duties.

During a normal year, chaplains are a regular presence at the police department through chaplain meetings, attending department meetings, training, and ride alongswith officers. In 2020, we made adjustments to meet remotely to stay connected. Also, after many years of service to our community, chaplain Ty Willems retired. We thanks Ty for his many years of service to the community!


2020 Police Chaplains

Steve Swanson | Faith in Christ Fellowship, Eagan

Chuck Tindell (ret.) | Shepherd of the Valley, Apple Valley

Ty Willems | Christ Church, Apple Valley

Mike Swecker | Hosanna Church, Lakeville

Steve Swanson

Mike Swecker

Chuck Tindell

Ty Willems

360 COMMUNITIES AND ASSAULT REVIEW TEAM

The Apple Valley Police Department continues

our partnership with 360 Communities, a non-

profit organization that provides domestic and

sexual assault advocacy and shelter services to

victims.

The Apple Valley Police Department takes

domestic and sexual assault very seriously,

recognizing the devastating effects this type of

crime has on victims, their families, and our

community. We appreciate the partnership with

360 Communities and their dedication to serving

victims capably and compassionately.

Stacie Burke, and her K-9 partner Ranger,

served as the Outreach Advocate working out of

the police department in 2020.

https://www.360communities.org/


To enhance our service to victims of domestic

abuse, the Assault Review Team remains as an

important part of our response to domestic and

sexual assaults. Team goals include; successful

prosecution of offenders, protection of victims

from further assault, and successful

identification of suspects that have a propensity

for violence with a high risk to reoffend.

Officers assigned to the team receive additional

training and often follow up on cases so victims

and prosecutors have all they need for a

successful resolution.

https://www.360communities.org/

EMPLOYEE RECOGNITION


OFFICER OF THE YEAR

Since joining the AVPD in 2012, Officer Engel has been an outstanding performer. He brought with him a wealth of knowledge in the Law Enforcement field and immediately started contributing at a high level. As a Patrol Officer he has also been an Explorer Advisor, Firearms Instructor and a Field Training Officer. His teaching in these various areas have contributed to the success of a numbers of recruits and all officers. David has a reputation as a steadfast and hard working officer who can complete any job asked of him. David is a partner whom his colleagues can always count on and he retains the intensity and integrity that he brought with him from his first day.


Officer David Engel

EMPLOYEE OF THE YEAR

Records Technician Annie Thielen has made a very big impact on our department since joining our ranks. She works hard to make sure her tasks are completed timely, efficiently and thorough. When her normal duties are accomplished, she goes out of her way to look for other work to do that may be above and beyond her normal job scope. Annie’s attitude is always positive, which is contagious, and she is very supportive of her co-workers. Annie has a desire to learn and grow, always trying to make herself become more successful at her position. Annie has excelled at her job and is positioning herself for a leadership role in the future.


Annie Thielen

MEDAL OF COMMENDATION

In August, 2019, the Dakota County Drug Task Force started investigating a case involving

the Sinaloa Cartel and a connection to the Twin Cities. As a DCDTF Agent, Detective Horazuk

was assigned to investigate and spent countless hours working on this case. He was able to

assist in identifying an initial suspect who was responsible for renting apartments in the Twin

Cities for the cartel. That initial discovery led to a major investigation involving several

agencies. The extensive scope of the case evolved into numerous warrants, undercover

operations, identifying stash houses, identifying suspects and making arrests.

In 2020, Officer Horazuk continued to work this case. He would assist and/or run all major

operations for this case until his departure from the DCDTF. To date this case has seized over

225 pounds of Methamphetamine, 13 pounds of fentanyl laced heroin, 14,000 counterfeit

oxycodone pills, $412,00 in cash assets, 16 illegal firearms and over 40 indictments.

The DCDTF awarded Officer Horazuk the “2020 Case of the Year.” Because of Detective

Horazuk’s extraordinary expertise, thoroughness, and determination, he is awarded a Medal

of Commendation.

•


Detective Joel Horazuk

CHIEFS AWARD OF MERIT

2020 was an unprecedented year for our country. The WHO declared Covid-19 a pandemic outbreak in March. MN Governor Walz declared a peacetime emergency and the City of Apple Valley declared a local emergency. Captain Francis worked with every city department to evaluate services, close facilities, coordinate the workforce and navigate the many challenges of a pandemic. Employees juggled with closed schools and many personal uncertainties. Captain Francis adjusted schedules to create a separation of teams and allow employees to better work with their family schedules. MN also became the epicenter of global protests for police reform after a police involved death in MN in March. The widespread unrest required immense manpower and Captain Francis worked swiftly to ensure manpower was met and employees were outfitted with the proper gear for these new roles. The employees of the AVPD faced a very daunting year in 2020, but the leadership of the police administration made the year much less damaging.


Captain Nick Francis



Captain Greg Dahlstrom

2020 was an unprecedented year for our country. The WHO declared Covid-19 a

pandemic outbreak in March. MN Governor Walz declared a peacetime emergency

and the City of Apple Valley declared a local emergency. Captain Dahlstrom worked

with every city department to evaluate services, close facilities, coordinate the

workforce and navigate the many challenges of a pandemic. Employees juggled with

closed schools and many personal uncertainties. Captain Dahlstrom adjusted

schedules to create a separation of teams and allow employees to better work with

their family schedules. MN also became the epicenter of global protests for police

reform after a police involved death in MN in March. The widespread unrest required

immense manpower and Captain Dahlstrom worked swiftly to ensure manpower was

met and employees were outfitted with the proper gear for these new roles. The

employees of the AVPD faced a very daunting year in 2020, but the leadership of the

police administration made the year much more bearable.


2020 was a challenging year for the AVPD. Covid-19 forced changes to our workflow and processes to maintain quality services to our customers while ensuring the safety of our employees. Remote work became reality for most of our Records staff. Police Administrative Manager Steph Mellesmoen never wavered in her commitment to the AVPD and continued to be a physical presence in the workplace. Steph arrived early each morning to distribute the workload properly and has been a “go to” person for questions relating to technology needs and access by remote workers. During this turmoil there was a mandated change in the way we submit our data upstream, a project called NIBRS. Steph was instrumental in the planning and implementation of this process. We admire your dedication and present this award in appreciation.


Steph Mellesmoen


2020 was a challenging year for the AVPD. Covid-19 forced changes to our workflow and processes to maintain quality services to our customers while ensuring the safety of our employees. Remote work became reality for most of our Records staff. Police Lead Records Technician Terry McNulty never wavered in her commitment to the AVPD and continued to be a physical presence in the workplace. Terry arrived early each morning to distribute the workload properly and has been a “go to” person for questions relating to technology needs and access by remote workers. During this turmoil there was a mandated change in the way we submit our data upstream, a project called NIBRS. Terry was instrumental in the planning and implementation of this process. We admire your dedication and present this award in appreciation.


Terry McNulty


Sergeant Tschida had a very tense and busy year in 2020. He was appointed as Commander of the South Metro Swat Team on April 14, 2020. This teams comprises officers and supervisors from 13 agencies across Dakota and Rice Counties. The team serves 340,000 residents and covers 1,066 miles. In March of 2020 the Twin Cities became the epicenter of police sparked civil unrest that spanned the globe. The Swat Team had to pivot from a traditional high risk response role to support functions for regional mobile field force staff. Sergeant Tschida worked tirelessly to ensure the Swat Team was mission capable to support those officers day and night, on short notice. Thanks to Sergeant Tschida’s leadership, South Metro Swat has become a very important aspect of emergency preparedness across Dakota County and beyond.


Sergeant Adam Tschida

AWARD OF MERIT

The Department Award of Merit may be awarded to a member of department for outstanding performance or achievement in the competent application of an employee’s job skills, usually under difficult circumstances.

Pictured on this page are Detective Sergeant Gummert, Sergeant Gerving, Detective Becker, and Detective Bone.


AWARD OF MERIT


Pictured on this page are Detective Schyma, Officer T. Booth, Officer Kline and Officer Mack.


AWARD OF MERIT


Pictured on this page are Officer Neumann and Officer Strohmayer.


LIFESAVING AWARD

The Life Saving Award may be presented to an employee whose actions directly resulted in, or

significantly contributed to, the saving of a human life.

Pictured on this page are Officer Demo, Officer Ehmke, Officer Gysbers and Officer Witkowski.


2020 SERVICE AWARD

2020 saw unprecedented times for our country, state, and local municipalities. It was an exceedingly

difficult year for public service, specifically law enforcement. On March 11, 2020 the World Health

Organization characterized Covid-19 a pandemic outbreak. The President of the United States

declared a national emergency on March 13, 2020. On the same day as the President, the Governor of

Minnesota declared a peacetime emergency. In response to these declarations, the City of Apple Valley

declared a local emergency.

This declaration changed the way the police department functioned overnight. We were forced to

evaluate services offered, close some city facilities, coordinate manpower to handle the crisis and

change the way we scheduled people to work. Our department was split into teams to keep contact

with each other to a minimum, to not only keep us as safe as possible, but also our loved ones and

citizens. All of the decisions made were made to provide the highest level of service, balanced with

doing everything possible to keep our employees safe. Employees not only had to juggle a new work

environment but a new personal environment as well. Schools closed and businesses closed or limited

services drastically. All areas of life were changed in a very rapid time, but essential workers had to

keep working to make sure public was as safe as possible under the circumstances.

The turmoil caused by the pandemic was soon joined by an unrest spawned by the in-custody death of

George Floyd. The death attracted worldwide attention with Minneapolis as the epicenter. Riots,

protests and media attention all converged to cause a public outcry like we have never seen. The

resulting chaos required immense manpower to tackle all across the metro area. Our officers were

actively involved in these operations for a great length of time, when we were already in crisis mode

from the pandemic.

In 1977, under executive order 11965, President Gerald Ford created the Humanitarian Service Medal.

The Medal is awarded to any member of the U.S. Military who distinguishes themselves by meritorious

participation in acts or operations of a Humanitarian nature. Two of the primary colors of the medal are

purple and blue. The purple is meant to represent self-sacrifice. The blue is meant to represent

universal friendship. In honor of those meanings and colors, The Apple Valley Police Department is

proud to introduce a 2020 Commendation bar, that will be offered one time, into the Employee

Recognition Policy.

2020 was a year like we have never seen. All Apple Valley Police Department Employees rose to an

extended challenge that was far and above a routine environment. In recognition and appreciation of

their service, all employees of The Apple Valley Police Department in 2020 are awarded the 2020

Commendation Bar.


RETIREMENTS, NEW HIRES AND PROMOTIONS


RETIREMENT

.


OFFICER VALERIE HOLES

Officer Valerie Holes started her career as an

Apple Valley Police Officer on September 15,

1997. Prior to working at the Apple Valley Police

Department, she spent time with the MSP Airport

Police and University of Minnesota Police

Departments.

During her time at the Apple Valley Police

Department, Officer Holes served as a Field

Training Officer, Special Enforcement Team

Officer and Retail Crime Officer just to name a

few. She was active in the police union and

brought calm to many high-stress calls for

service.

Officer Holes was a decorated member of the

Police Department.

NEW HIRES


Officer Chris Lundberg

Officer Lundberg was born in Coon Rapids MN. He

went to elementary school in Prior Lake MN and

later move to PA. He graduated from Neshannock

High school in Pennsylvania and enlisted in the

Navy. He went through Navy SEAL training in 2001

and graduated with class 237. He was active duty

Navy SEAL from 2001-2009, at which point he

transferred to the Active Reserves as a SEAL.

While on active duty, he completed 8 combat

deployments. While in the reserves he worked as a

private armed security contractor. In 2014 he was

hired as a project manager for Range Systems Inc.

where he built shooting ranges worldwide. While

working for Range Systems, he earned his

Master’s degree in Project Management and his

MBA in Strategic Leadership. In 2018, he was

recalled to active duty for 1 year and was stationed

in Coronado California at SEAL Team 17. He

received a commission, became an Officer, and is

currently a Platoon Commander for Reserve SEAL

Team 18.

While he was recalled, he decided to pursue Law

Enforcement. He returned home in Oct of 2018

and earned his Law Enforcement Certificate from

Inver Hills Community College. When he is not

working, he enjoys playing hockey and spending

time with his wife and kids.

NEW HIRES


Officer Eric Kline

Officer Kline grew up in Faribault. Having come

from a family in law enforcement he decided

early this was the profession he wanted to be

in. After graduating high school, Officer Kline

attended Alexandria Technical College and later

received his bachelor’s degree from Metro

State. Officer Kline started his career as a

detention deputy and then worked for two

smaller police agencies before coming to Apple

Valley. Eric always had a desire to work for a

large agency with more career opportunities.

Officer Kline loves spending time with his family

and doing outdoor activities on his off time.

NEW HIRES


Officer David Gysbers

Officer Gysbers is a St. Paul native who’s lived in

the Twin Cities most of his life. After graduating

Roseville Area High School in 2005, he obtained a

B.S. in Biology from the University of Minnesota in

2011. After a diverse string of jobs in college, he

determined to follow his grandfather’s and father’s

(both armed forces veterans) examples of service.

He worked for 7 years as a 911 Dispatcher, and

volunteered as a reserve deputy during that time. In

2018 he completed Metro State’s peace officer

certificate program.

Outside of work, he continues to volunteer in the

clinic of the Gabbert Raptor Center at the

University of Minnesota. He also enjoys

backpacking, kayaking, motorcycling and sci-fi.

He’s getting married in October, and lives with his

fiancée, dog, and cat. Officer Gysbers is happy to

have the opportunity to continue his career and

pursue his aspirations in Apple Valley.

NEW HIRES


Officer Jonathan LeClaire

Officer LeClaire grew up in Apple Valley and

graduated from Eastview High School in 2011.

After high school he attended Metropolitan

State University and obtained his Bachelor of

Science degree in Law Enforcement. Prior to

being hired by the Apple Valley Police

Department he worked as a Police Officer in

the city of St. James for about 4 years. His

career goals were to return to the metro area

after gaining experience.

In his time off he enjoys hunting, camping and

other outdoor activities. He is excited for the

opportunity to work in the City of Apple Valley

and looks forward to continuing his career as a

Police Officer in the city he grew up in.

STATISTICAL INFORMATION


CALLS FOR SERVICE

39548 4007940864

41752

34524

7468 7555 7127 7005 6806

2016 2017 2018 2019 2020

POLICE CALLSFOR SERVICE

POLICE REPORTS


MOTOR VEHICLE CRASHES

171

139 147

113

2017 2018 2019 2020

Personal Injury Motor Vehicle Crashes

906997 1057 1050

796

2016 2017 2018 2019 2020

Property Damage Motor Vehicle Crashes


ROBBERY AND THEFT

1719

15

12 13

2016 2017 2018 2019 2020

Robbery

10201120

9201024

860

2016 2017 2018 2019 2020

Theft


ASSAULT AND TOTAL ARRESTS

300 324373

313

384

2016 2017 2018 2019 2020

Assault

1234 1206 1198 1152

521

2016 2017 2018 2019 2020

Total Arrests


JUVENILES & ADULTS CHARGED

378

259233

155

77

2016 2017 2018 2019 2020

Juveniles Charged

856947 965 997

444

2016 2017 2018 2019 2020

Adults Charged


518518 388 378

1007

2016 2017 2018 2019 2020

Permits to Purchase a Firearm

PERMITS TO PURCHASE A FIREARM AND INFORMATION

REQUESTS

4100 4200 4200

3336 3514

2016 2017 2018 2019 2020

Information Requests


SELECTED CRIMES REPORTED


Selected Crimes Reported

ASSAULT/TERRORISTIC THREATS (384)

BURGLARY/BURGLARY TOOLS (73)

CRIMES AGAINST FAMILY (33)

CRIMINAL SEXUAL CONDUCT (74)

DRUG RELATED (137)

DUI (85)

FORGERY (50)

JUVENILE RUNAWAY (79)

MURDER (3)

VANDALISM (338)

ROBBERY (13)

POSSESS STOLEN PROPERTY (24)

THEFT (860)

MOTOR VEHICLE THEFT (54)

TRESPASSING (27)

UNDERAGE DRINKING & DRIVING (6)

VIOLATION OF A COURT ORDER (87)

IN CLOSING


ABOUT OUR PATCH AND CREST

THE EAGLE

The eagle on our patch represents our noble nature, strength, bravery and alertness. In its right talon, the eagle

holds an olive branch; a sign of peace and in its left talon the eagle holds arrows, symbolizing the willingness to

fight for nobility.

THE WREATH

The use of the laurel wreath on our crest dates back to ancient times as a symbol of peace, eternity, victory and

unrequited love. The wreath is meant to communicate the same values today along with emphasizing the other

elements of the crest. The circular shape of interlocking branches is a historic emblem that resonates victory.

THE SHIELD

Both our patch and crest contain a shield that is a symbol of protection, our primary duty to our citizens. The 1964

at the top of the shield is the year the Apple Valley Police Department came into existence. The stars and stripes in

the upper right quarter of the shield represent our commitment to our country and the apple tree in the upper left

quarter of the shield represents our commitment to our community. The torch in the lower right quarter of the shield

represents our commitment to constant vigilance and the book in the lower left quarter of the shield represents our

commitment to learning and understanding.

THE BANNER

Both our patch and crest contain a banner with our department motto “Spectemur Agendo” (we are judged by our

deeds). This banner communicates our desire to live out our values and mission daily, not through words but

through actions.


WE APPRECIATE YOUR SUPPORT!


For most, 2020 was a challenging year. For the

police department, it was unprecedented. Among

the darkness, a bright spot emerged. Our

community showed the love with treats, notes of

encouragement, an outpouring of support.

THANK YOU

2020 was an unprecedented year world wide. Many things

changed in our lives and many things changed in our

department. But some things remained the same. Our

department is proud for what we have accomplished despite the

difficult year. We look forward to returning to our normal

operations, especially connecting with our public and making the

face to face interactions that let the community know not just

what we do, but who we are.

The men and women of the Apple Valley Police Department

could not have sustained this past year without each other. We

are fortunate to have the leadership of our City Administration

and City Council. Most of all, we could not have sustained this

past year without the partnership and support of our community.

Thank you for being there for us!

—Your Friends at the AVPD!


Our mission is to protect our

community and improve quality of life

through service, education, and

enforcement.

Apple Valley Police Department

7100 147th St. W.

Apple Valley, MN 55124

952-953-2700

[email protected]

mailto:[email protected]

https://www.facebook.com/Apple-Valley-Police-226202134082113

https://twitter.com/AppleValleyPD/following

Apple Valley Police Department

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