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Updates and Information on the Community and Your Department
A Sioux City man lead officers on a high-speed chase after dragging officer with car. Officers were investigating a report of man with a gun when they located 26-year-old Austin Tanner who had active felony arrest warrants. Tanner was arrested after losing control of his car and crashing.
Read MoreThe month of April is Autism Awareness Month and in support of that, the Sioux City Police Department is selling an Autism Awareness version of its shoulder patch for $10 a piece.
All proceeds from the patch raised will be donated to the Pier Center for Autism which is the only clinic of its kind in the area that provide compassionate care for individuals with autism.
The patch is the same shape, size, and colors of our current patch by features a puzzle piece motif background that represents autism and also includes banners to support awareness of autism.
The Autism Society recognizes that the prevalence of autism in the United States has risen from 1 in 125 children in 2010 to 1 in 59 in 2020.
The design and sale of the patch is done in partnership with The Friends of the Sioux City Police Department who are made up of citizens that seek ways to support the department.
The Autism Awareness Patch can be purchased at the following two locations.
Sioux City Police Department Mid-Step Services/Pier Center 601 Douglas St 4303 Stone Ave Sioux City, IA 51101 Sioux City, IA 51106
You can also have one mailed to by sending a check or money order made out to The Friends of the Sioux City Police Department in the amount of $10. Include your return address and that it is for the Autism Awareness Patch:
Sioux City Police Department Attn: Chief’s Office/ Autism Patch Sioux City, IA 51101
For more information on the Pier Center for Autism, visit their website at http://www.piercenter.org/.
On April 9 at 12:10 p.m. a Woodbury County Deputy located a stolen 2010 Chrysler Town and Country minivan in the 4300 block of Stone Ave.
The minivan was stolen during a robbery on March 25 in Sioux Falls, S.D. by a man armed with a handgun.
When the deputy approached the vehicle, a subject exited and ran. He was apprehended a short distance later.
The subject apprehended was identified as 18-year-old Chase B. Van Hofwegen of Sioux City.
Detectives with the Sioux City Police Department had been investigating Chase Van Hofwegen and his twin brother 18-year-old Chance Van Hofwegen of Sioux City in connection to the burglary of Select Mart, 4103 Floyd Blvd, on March 29.
Detectives located Chance in a residence 5309 Hwy 75n. lot 320 when they served a search warrant in connection to the Sioux Falls robbery and the Sioux City burglary.
During the search of the Van Hofwegen residence, detectives recovered $17,000 worth of stolen merchandise from Select Mart.
Chase Van Hofwegen was charged with Eluding a 1st degree Theft, 2nd degree Theft, and Eluding a Peace Officer.
Chance Van Hof Wegen was charged with 1st degree theft and 2nd degree Theft.
Both men were booked into Woodbury County Jail.
The investigations into the robbery and burglary are on-going.
Comparing 2019 to 2020; our overall violent crime for 2020 is up 26%, with overall property crimes down by 15%. Unfortunately, violent crime generally cannot be predicted, and police patrol tactics and strategies only have a limited impact on crime rates. Factors such as economic conditions, age and demographics of the population, geography and climate, population density, citizen education, and cultural factors provide variables that more significantly affect crime.
An interesting question that the numbers will likely not tell us, is how the worldwide pandemic influenced crime rates. While the pandemic likely did impact local crime numbers, we cannot currently specify exactly how. Any theories would be speculation without more supportive data to provide context.
Clearly the rise in violent crime is something that we have given special focus to. Many of these violent crimes are gun related, and current departmental initiatives are doing a very good job of identifying and prosecuting our most dangerous local offenders. This “major offender” approach continues to utilize evidence based techniques and area law enforcement partnerships to share vital data and intelligence. Finally, work with local and federal prosecutors assists in ensuring violent offenders receive appropriate sentences for their crimes.
Looking at our historical property crime statistics, there is nothing overly concerning. Local property crime trends tend to have ebbs and flows over the years. With property crime down 15% we can simply view this as a reasonably steady crime rate. While any downward trends in crime rates are positive, changes of this rate are likely beyond the ability of our department to impact. As always, our department will work to deploy the latest crime reduction strategies to make positive progress in this area. We will also continue to utilize the resources and personnel to provide efficient and effective police services.
Chief Rex Mueller
Prichard, Ala. - Members of the Gulf Coast Fugitive Task Force took into custody 36-year-old Roderick D. Banks on Feb. 8 in Prichard, Ala. without incident.
Banks had a warrant for his arrest charging him with the Nov. 1 murder of Solomon Blackbird in Sioux City, Iowa.
Blackbird was found suffering from a gunshot wound in the 2600 block of Douglas St. on Nov. 1 at 6:46 p.m. He was transported to MercyOne where he succumbed to his wound. The motive is possibly related to a drug deal between the two men.
Detectives with the Sioux City Police Department notified the Northern Iowa Fugitive Task Force of Bank’s warrant and sought their assistance in apprehending him.
Based on their investigation and tips received, the Northern Iowa Fugitive Task Force developed information that Banks had fled to Alabama in order to avoid prosecution and notified the Gulf Coast Fugitive Task Force in order to locate and apprehend Banks.
Banks is awaiting extradition back to Sioux City.
The Fugitive Task Force is under the control of the U.S. Marshal Service and the local task force includes a member of the Sioux City Police Department.
The purpose of the regional fugitive task forces is to combine the efforts of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies to locate and apprehend the most dangerous fugitives and assist in high profile investigations.
The department’s partnership with the U.S. Marshal Service helps ensure that fugitives that commit violent acts in Sioux City are held accountable for their actions no matter where they try to flee and hide.
Any arrest/charge noted in this report should be considered merely an accusation. Any defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
Last updated Jan. 26, 2021
The woman who acted as the driver for the three men who fired weapons into a house in the 2600 block of Walker St. that took one person’s life and injured three others, surrendered today at 2:29 p.m. and was booked into the Woodbury County Jail.
The County Attorney’s office has charged 20-year-old Liliana O. Gutierrez with three counts of reckless use of a firearm and one count of intimidation of a dangerous weapon for her part in the Jan. 1 murder of Mia Kritis.
There is no evidence showing that Gutierrez fired any of the weapons involved and appears to only have acted as the driver.
Detectives with the department continue to seek additional evidence involved in the shooting and charges will be filed against anyone who has or is taking part in concealing that evidence.
Anyone with additional information on this investigation is encouraged to call the Sioux City Police Department.
Jan 13, 2021 at 6:30 p.m. - Additional suspects taken into custody for Walker St. Shooting
On Jan. 13 the Sioux City Police Department arrested two additional men for the murder of Mia Kritis.
Detectives are charging 18-year-old Carlos Morales of Sioux City and 18-year-old Anthony S. Bauer aka Tony Diaz with 1st Degree Murder, Intimidation with a Dangerous Weapon, Going Armed with Intent, and three counts Reckless Use of Firearm.
Carlos Morales and Bauer were taken into custody after officers located them at 4:25 p.m. in a car in the 3100 block of Floyd Blvd.
Detectives are not seeking any additional suspects but still are looking for people that were at the party at the time of shooting and anyone else with information.
Two other subjects in the car were detained as part of the investigation and released without charges.
Jan. 11, 2021 at 4:00 p.m. - Murder charge filed in Walker St. Shooting
The Woodbury County Attorney has charged 19-year-old Christopher I. Morales of Sioux City with 1st Degree Murder for the death of Mia Kritis after he fired a gun into a house on Jan. 1 in the 2600 block of Walker St.
Three other people were struck by the gun fire and are recovering from the wounds they received during the shooting.
Additional charges of Going Armed with Intent and three counts of Reckless Use of a Firearm were also filed against Morales.
Detectives are still working on identifying other subjects involved and no other people have been charged in connection with the shooting at the time of this release.
Update on Jan. 5, 2021 at 11:00 a.m. - Arrest made in connection with Walker St. Homicide
Detectives with the Sioux City Police Department have charged 19-year-old Christopher I. Morales with Intimidation with a Dangerous Weapon and Going Armed with Intent in connection to the Jan. 1 shooting in the 2600 block of Walker St that left one woman dead and three other people injured.
Morales was arrested on Jan. 3 at 3:46 p.m. in the 1900 block of Douglas St. when he attempted to flee officers after they approached him. Once in custody, they found him to be in possession of a firearm. He was charged with Felon in Possession of Firearm, Unlawful Carry of Weapons, and Interference with Official Acts.
Based on that arrest and seizure of the firearm, detectives were able to connect Morales and the firearm to the shooting on Walker St where a subject was forced to walk into the residence by Morales and additional suspects before they fired into the house with 9 mm caliber handguns and an assault style rifle.
Additional charges are pending based on the results of forensic examinations of evidence collected at the scene.
Detectives are still searching for information on additional suspects that were involved in the shooting and are asking anyone with information to please contact the Sioux City Police Department.
Update on Jan. 3, 2021 at 3:15 p.m. Name of Walker St homicide victim
The Sioux City Police Department identified 18-year-old Mia Alexis-Marie Kritis of Sioux City as the victim of the homicide that occurred on Jan. 1 in the 2600 block of Walker St.
We wish to express our deepest sympathies to her family and friends for their loss.
The names of other victims injured in this incident are not being released at this time as they are juveniles but all are recovering from their injuries.
Detectives are continuing to follow up on several leads and ask that anyone that was at the residence at the time of the shooting to please contact the Sioux City Police Department.
We want to reassure any witnesses that they face no charges for attending an underage party and our priority is the investigation of the senseless murder of Ms. Kritis.
Jan. 1, 2021 5:15 a.m. Original Release
On 12:49 am Friday, January 1st, 2021 the Sioux City Police Department received reports of a shots fired in the 2600 block of South Walker Street in Sioux City. Upon arrival, officers were able to determine that multiple shots had been fired into the residence at 2637 South Walker Street. Upon entering the property, officers located victims inside the residence, including an 18-year-old female who had suffered a fatal gunshot wound.
There were several other victims that were also struck by gunfire, and are being treated at Sioux City hospitals. The investigation is currently ongoing.
Police are asking for assistance from the public. If anyone has information about this incident, they are encouraged to contact the Sioux City Police Department.
The Sioux City Council and the Sioux City Police Department announced that the department have fully implemented their body worn camera program. All officers are now equipped with the body worn cameras and are using them during calls for service.
Read MoreGovernor Kim Reynold’s latest proclamation has outlined new guidance to help slow the spread of COVID-19 after a dramatic spike in the State of Iowa and our local community. The City of Sioux City supports these measures and will do what is necessary to help stop the spread of COVID-19 in Sioux City.
Outlined in the proclamation are provisions that are meant to help stop the spread of the virus such as increased social distancing, mask wearing recommendations, and guidance for bars and restaurants. The Governor has also implored public safety to help enforce the proclamation.
The City of Sioux City is asking each resident to adhere to the provisions in the proclamation. All of us are facing an unprecedented time in our history and we ask we all cooperate to lessen the impact of the pandemic. We also ask the patrons to be respectful of the bars and restaurants and to not violate the provisions placed on them. Failure to do so may impact their continued ability to operate.
By working together and supporting each other during this crisis, we can free up law enforcement to respond to other community emergencies, support our local businesses, and more importantly, help protect the health of everyone in our community.
The goal of the City of Sioux City and the Sioux City Police Department is work with our residents and businesses to insure compliance with the proclamation through education. Complaints of violations of the proclamation will be investigated but our end goal is to educate residents and businesses on the proclamation in order to maintain voluntarily compliance with current guidelines.
In cases where we cannot obtain voluntary compliance, the Sioux City Police Department will work with the Woodbury County Attorney, Iowa Alcohol Beverage Division, and Iowa Department of Inspections and Appeals to enforce all aspects the proclamation.
The SCPD will begin an effort to remove abandoned cars from city streets in preparation for winter.
Read MoreOn Saturday, Oct. 24, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. the Sioux City Police Department and the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration will provide the public the opportunity to prevent pill abuse and theft by ridding their homes of potentially dangerous expired, unused and unwanted prescription drugs. (Sites cannot accept liquids, needles or sharps, only pills or patches.) The service is free and anonymous, no questions asked.
Read MoreOn Sept. 10, the Sioux City Police Department held a ceremony to recognize officers and civilians for their achievements and accomplishments during the year. The following employees were recognized.
Officer of the Year: Officer Carl Ragar Civilian of the Year: Erica Vickery
Achievement Award: Sgt. Jake Noltze Distinguished Services: Carissa Roach
Chief’s Commendation: Heather Albrecht Distinguished Service: All Employees
Lifesaving Award: Officers Dan Hutton, Nathan Niehus, Mackenzie Neely, Alan Schmeckpeper, Dylan Grimsley, and Lieutenant Judy Kellen
Community Policing Award: Officers Jeffrey Demetri, Brady Beach, Anthony Vondrak, Brennan Gill, Brad Echter, Nick Thompson, Angela Kolker, Donette Sassman, Sergeants Jim Clark, Scott Hatting, Bill Melville, and Lieutenant Kevin Heineman
Chief’s Citation: John Ackerman and Dean Burger
Chief’s Appreciation Award: Jack Hagerty, Marc Wheeldon, Adam Wheeldon, and Sioux City McDonalds
The following are the details for those awards.
Carl Ragar, displayed initiative and dependability in excess of the norm in this last year. His integrity, command presence, and top-notch professionalism has earned him a position on the highly recognized SCPD Honor Guard, Carl is a Field Training Officer and he consistently displays his skill as an excellent communicator with the ability to elicit interest, enthusiasm, drive, and energy using a common-sense approach to his training of new recruits. His tenacity for the job and willingness to do whatever it takes to conclude his investigations is a great learning opportunity for young officers. Carl exhibits exceptional officer safety skill and demands the same from his recruits in the FTO program. He routinely stops at local motels and checks to see who’s checked in and runs their names for warrants and drug history’s. With that he has made numerous arrests for drugs and other crimes he is investigating. Carl continues to be one of the leaders in traffic stops per month and with his outgoing personality, creates a positive opportunity to interact with the public. These extras that Carl does daily sets him apart from other officers. For Car there is no such thing a routine investigation. He takes every case seriously no matter how minor and investigates it until he makes an arrest. He works tirelessly on every investigation not stopping until every rock has been overturned. When dealing with domestic calls and other crisis situations, Carl’s demeanor and command presence consistently diffuse and deescalate situations. Over the course of 5 months Carl was the lead investigator in a marijuana drug investigation which identified other suspects and documented the coming and going of parties distributing large quantities of drugs. Carl’s reputation on this department as a hardworking, motivated officer is not questioned. He brings a strong work ethic every day to work while always being prepared for the unexpected. His attitude may be more than anything sets him apart from others. His willingness to assist any officer, for any reason without question, makes him unique. Carl is admired by his fellow officers, and his dedication to the department and the City of Sioux City is recognized by everyone. He is truly deserving of the title of “Officer of the Year.”
Erica Vickery has been an outstanding asset to the Investigative Services Bureau as the Administrative Assistant. Erica was instrumental in the training of the new hired administrative secretary in the drug task force. Erica took on the role of being the chief’s administrative assistant backup for filing critical personnel orders and other administrative documents. Erica was asked by Human Resources Department to be the Police Department NEOGOV representative handling all new hire, promotions, outside hiring advertising, and posting and receiving of electronic applications. Erica assisted the Citizens Academy leadership team with administrative paperwork and mailings. Erica was our go to administrative secretary for many other duties during the early stages of the Covid-19 sickness when almost all other civilian administrative positions where struggling with Coronavirus. Erica was also willing and ready to assist the police department in hiring and training her replacement as the administrative secretary of investigations. In her efforts to advance her area, she converted many documents and processes to electronic folders, and transitioned the investigations monthly report into one flowing easy to read document. Erica innovated and changed how things were done in investigations, and did so without being prompted. Although Erica accepted a new job and left the police department, she desires to be recognized as being the 2019 - 2020 Civilian of the Year!
Sgt. Noltze served as an acting sergeant prior to his June 2019 promotion. Sgt. Noltze was asked to serve as the department’s K9 Program Coordinator, where he oversees all the department K9 activities including dog and handler training, purchasing, report writing, recruitment and certifications. As one of the most knowledgeable K9 trainers in the area, he also aids neighboring LE agencies (WCSO, Plymouth County SO, and Le Mars) with their K9 training program and operations. In addition to the tasks of suspect tracking, apprehension, and drug detection, Sgt. Noltze ensures the K9 unit is actively involved in the department’s community team policing mission. Sgt. Noltze and his team are regularly involved with K-9 demonstrations that are positive community policing outreach efforts. Noltze also integrated K9 involvement into the Life Academy program that is directed to working with special needs children. Sgt. Noltze and K9 partner Odin were featured in the NTOA “Tactical Edge” magazine for a K9 deployment during a SWAT call that ended up saving the life of a suicidal suspect. Sgt. Noltze regularly spends his time and resources away from work attending additional outside training that he unselfishly and unhesitatingly brings back to the department. He completed two rigorous training school to become a NEPOPO instructor, and paid for the training out of his own pocket. Since Sergeant Noltze's completion and certification, he has passed on his learnings and in depth understanding of NEPOPO to his K-9 unit here at the Sioux City Police Dept. The knowledge passed on and taught by Sergeant Noltze to his K9 handlers is invaluable, and assures our K-9 Unit will remain on the cutting edge of training and techniques. Because of Sergeant Noltze's dedication to the SCPD K-9 Unit, and his efforts to go above and beyond in his quest for excellence, he has truly earned the department’s Achievement Award.
As the supervisor if the ID Bureau, Carissa is committed and dedicated to the department, and is always looking for ways to improve her unit. During the past year the ID unit underwent some significant challenges. In April one of the ID technicians was seriously injured and unable to work for several months. This caused a hardship for the entire unit. Even though Carissa is a salaried employee and in not eligible for overtime, Carissa worked numerous shifts and callouts to relieve her already overworked team. Just as it seemed that the unit would be fully staffed, one of the technicians resigned due to other opportunities. Carissa worked through the process with HR to hire another technician to hire a new ID Tech and train that person. Again, Carissa worked many hours without compensation to relieve the burden on some of the other technicians. As if all of this wasn’t enough, during the Covid-19 Crisis, the property room technician unexpectedly decided to retire. This individual also assisted with call-out duties. Due to the Covid-19 crisis, hiring has been delayed again requiring Carissa to assist with callouts and weekends. Carissa displayed dedication to furthering the mission of the Department and the ID Unit. She has given selflessly of her time, during three separate times of staffing crisis. She is truly deserving of the Distinguished Service Award.
Over the course of the last year, Officer Albrecht has been extremely pro-active in and around her district making numerous felony and federal cases by taking the time to investigate criminal acts that were affecting the citizens of Sioux City. This includes a significant drug case worked with her fellow teammates on the shift. By taking these extra steps and utilizing her past experiences in investigations, Heather has gone above and beyond her expectations as an officer. Her attitude, motivation and drive set her apart from other officers and is a shining example of what can be accomplished by putting forth a strong effort every day. Heather carries this motivation through in her position as a Field Training Officer, Member of the Honor Guard, and department instructor. Heather is quick to lend a hand when and wherever needed and will volunteer without hesitation. During the past year Heather not only displayed exemplary efforts in drug cases, but also worked tirelessly to clear multiple burglary and theft cases of note. Her experience as a crimes against persons detective was also apparent as she served as the primary officer on an Attempted Murder/Robbery case involving dangerous suspects. And while Heather displays considerable criminal investigations skills, she also understands the need for positive community policing efforts. She was actively involved in working with local apartment complexes that were experiencing issues, and frequently conducted walk-throughs and enforcement efforts to better conditions at the location. There are countless other incidents where Officer Albrecht assists her fellow officers, and helping to build cases for others. As an FTO she is actively teaching young officers how to build cases by giving them some crucial experiences that they would not normally receive in the training process. Her willingness to assist others along with her own personal motivations sets her apart from other officers and proves why she is deserving of the Chief’s Commendation.
On September 7, 2019, Officer Dan Hutton was called to 1716 Nebraska St. for a medical call. He was met at the door by a frantic complainant. He was taken to apartment 204. Upon entry, he observed a male party bleeding on the floor. A bystander was attempting to put pressure to the wound with limited success. Officer Hutton requested additional officers to assist in providing lifesaving measures to the injured party. Lt. Kellen and other officers arrived on scene. Officer Hutton kept talking to the male party to keep him conscious, Lt. Kellen applied her tourniquet to the male party's left arm with Officer Hutton’s assistance. Shortly after the ambulance arrived, officers assisted medical personal in getting the victim to awaiting medical transport to receive critical care. Without the quick efforts of these officers, the victim may not have had the positive outcome. They are truly deserving of the Lifesaving Award.
On January 31st, 2020, officers were on an unrelated traffic stop in the 1100 block of McDonald Street and overheard several gun shots coming from the south. Officers called this out over the radio and informed others who were in the area. Officers then began to check the area and while doing so Detective Nathan Niehus observed a subject lying on the ground in Cook Park with several people standing around him. Detective Niehus advised Dispatch and requested and ambulance at his location. Detective Niehus observed a male subject holding a sweatshirt over what appeared to be a bleeding chest wound on the victim. Detective. Niehus then began to assess the extent of the victim’s injuries. Within seconds Officer Mackenzie Neely had arrived on scene to assist Detective Niehus along with Detective’s Alan Schmeckpeper and Dylan Grimsley. Officers worked diligently to determine what wounds the victim had and where they were located on his body. Detective’s Niehus and Grimsley began checking for a pulse and could not find one. All officers on scene observed a lifeless victim that was not breathing. Detectives Niehus and Grimsley located two front chest wounds that appeared to be from bullet holes. As Detective. Niehus and Detective Grimsley were checking for wounds, both Officer Neely and Detective Alan Schmeckpeper where gathering medical supplies for the victim. The officers applied chest seals to the visible chest wounds and then began CPR. Detective Niehus gave rescue breaths and Detective Grimsley began chest compressions. Officers continued CPR until the paramedics arrived on scene to relieve them and transport the victim to the hospital. It was later learned that one of the bullets had nicked the heart and was causing blood to clot around the heart. The quick response time shown by officers to address the injuries and administer First Aid and CPR saved the life of this individual. The victim was later rushed into surgery where he survived his injuries. These officers are to be commended for their quick efforts to save the life of an individual.
In March of 2020, the Governor of Iowa issued a proclamation closing much of the state. This significantly affected the traffic count and flow within the city. Members of the STEP Unit were asked to initiate some project ideas outside of their normal duties. During the week of April 13-17, Officers identified 166 locations that contained graffiti that had not previously been reported. Officer took the initiative to contact property owners to have the graffiti removed. On April 27 and 28, Officers initiated a roadside trash clean-up project in which they collected approximately 50 bags of trash and larger items from six highly visible locations throughout the city. These locations included Transit Avenue, Floyd Blvd, Perry Creek Trail, Lincoln Way, Gordon Drive and Houlihan Run. The efforts of these Officers, working as a team, distinguished themselves by exemplifying service to the community and delivered a positive image of the Department while enhancing the community's quality of life. These actions embody the Department's Mission Statement and commitment to community team policing.
In early 2019, Officer Nick Thompson presented to the command staff an idea to re-institute a Bike Patrol Program for the Sioux City Police Department. Thompson met with Albrecht’s Cycle on several occasions identifying and specking out equipment for the program and researching other departments to see how they ran their programs. Under the guidance of Lt. Kevin Heineman, he also met with HUD and coordinated getting the bids sent out for the equipment requested. Having experience in bike patrol operations Officer Angela Kolker, along with Sergeants Bill Melville and Scott Hatting began working as a committee under the supervision of Lt. Kevin Heineman. Officers attended patrol officer bicycle course to learn the proper skills needed to operating bicycles in multiple environments, and brought those skills back to the department to create a 4-hour bike training program for officers. The officers on this committee also played an active role in creating the department policy for the program along with identifying the equipment and clothing needed for a successful unit. Officer Angela Kolker assisted in setting up the training program, created the unit documentation, and prepared equipment for deployment. Angela also researched bike rodeo programs that can be used at future events. Using a bicycle is a great tool to interact with the community in a positive manner, in furtherance of our Community Policing philosophy. This unit also allows officers to more closely interact with members of the community without the barrier of a vehicle and effectively patrol city facilities and walking trails where traditional vehicle access is limited. It also allows us to promote bicycle safety throughout the community through education and example. During the first month of operation, bikers put in 55 hours of bike time, rode 220 miles, and made contact with approximately 1,413 citizens. Officers spent time riding through local college areas, riding the Perry Creek Trail, through city parks, and the downtown business district during peak hours. The work of these officers led to more community partnerships along with increased positive community interaction. The officers involved in this committee should be commended for their efforts to revive an old community policing tool that enhances our ability to respond to community issues. They are to be commended for their Community Policing efforts.
Detective Brad Echter took his position as an Honor Guard member to promote community policing and the SCPD itself in a very positive way. Brad played a significant role in coordinating the SCPD Honor Guard presence at the Al Haynes funeral in Washington in October of 2019. This significant event represented our agency in a very significant way in our Nation’s Capital He also coordinated Law Enforcement Appreciation Night hosted by the Sioux City Explorers at Mercy One Field in Sioux City on July 19th, 2019. Detective Echter undertook significant effort and spent considerable time planning, organizing and executing an event that would honor area Law Enforcement officers while bringing together members of community. The event was attended by members of the SCPD, Woodbury County Sheriff’s Department, Union County Sheriff’s Office, North Sioux City Police Department, South Sioux City Police Department, the Iowa State Patrol, and others. As part of the event planning, Detective Echter made arrangements for the departments that were involved to bring and present ceremonial vehicles to greet those arriving to the park. For the opening ceremony, Echter arranged for the display of an American flag that was so large it needed to be displayed by a crane. Echter also coordinated a multi-agency honor guard to present the colors before the game was to be played, while the anthem was sung. Before the game, the names of fallen law enforcement officers were read, and honorary first pitch was thrown out by officers that had been injured in the line of duty. Players from the Explorers team would suit up in uniforms made just for the event. This event would serve to educate and remind the citizens about the dangers confronting law enforcement officers that serve their communities. This event was also an enjoyable venue for all to spend time together and build positive and lasting relationships. Brad’s work to honor special occasions and present law enforcement in a very positive light is truly deserving of the department’s Community Policing Award.
In May of 2019, Officer Donette Sassman presented the idea of creating window cling stickers that could be applied to car, business, or residential windows that would identify those members of our community that have a disability that would make it difficult for them to respond or communicate with first responders. Donette contacted Mark Aesoph of the Sioux City Fire Department and created a partnership to both create and fund the project. Prototypes of four different stickers identifying deaf, diabetic, Alzheimer’s/dementia, and autism/special needs were created and sent out for production. After receiving the final product, Donette assisted with distribution of the stickers to the appropriate agencies; and participated in press conferences to get the word out to those that may benefit. Her efforts to recognize the needs of individuals with disabilities in our community is appreciated, and truly deserving of recognition.
In the spring of 2020, the worldwide pandemic caused by the Covid – 19 virus caused a dramatic and challenging changes to law enforcement work. Unlike private businesses or providers who simply close their doors during times of crisis, the essential service providers with the Sioux City Police Department continued to provide crucial public safety services during this time. At great personal risk to themselves and their families, they traveled to their assigned duties, and interacted with the public and their co-workers, potentially exposing themselves to a highly contagious and sometimes deadly virus. The Distinguished service award is given to staff under the following circumstances “Awarded for an act that evidenced highly commendable conduct or judgment by the recipient in the performance of duty; such as selfless dedication to duty during a prolonged time of crisis or emergency.” Now more than ever in SCPD history, this award is particularly meaningful as a worldwide crisis reaches our doors. The health and economic impact will no doubt severely challenge our community for years to come. Yet even during this time, all our dedicated employees continued to act in their roles of public servants. While there will likely be various important and selfless acts of valor by our staff, the response to this crisis was clearly a team effort deserving of recognition. Regardless of the duration or outcome of this crisis, the SCPD staff was there for the citizens of Sioux City, and are very deserving of the distinguished service award.
In 2014, Sgt. Jason Allen approached command staff about expanding our community policing efforts by facilitating the “Coffee With a Cop “program in Sioux City. After several local events, Adam Wheeldon of McDonald’s of Siouxland contacted Sgt. Allen in 2016 to expand this program to multiple McDonald’s locations in Sioux City to coincide with National Coffee with a Cop Day. The event was largely attended and created excellent public relations for both McDonald’s of Siouxland and the Police Department. In 2017, Adam Wheeldon again reached out to Sgt. Allen to discuss ways to increase the impact of Coffee with a Cop and reach the most citizens city-wide. Adam, his father Marc and the McDonalds staff became valuable community partners as this program was expanded to all restaurant locations In Sioux City. The event continues to be very popular with citizens and officers, and led to expanded opportunities for citizen interaction. McDonald’s of Siouxland has been steadfast in their continued support of the Sioux City Police Department’s community policing efforts and their effort and commitment should be commended. The body of work and resources they have provided over the past 6 years exemplifies the type of public/private partnerships that facilitate the successful continuance of these types of programs. Adam Wheeldon (Director of Operations) and his father Mark Wheeldon (Owner of all Sioux City McDonalds) should be commended for their support of community initiatives that bring citizens and the police together.
On May 4th, Jack Haggerty came to police headquarters to speak about issues he was observing in the in a westside neighborhood. Mr. Haggerty noticed that there was a fair amount of foot traffic at a nearby house, and some appeared to be delivering bags of unknown items. Suspecting that drugs were being dealt from the location, he began to take note of individuals and vehicle plates to assist police in investigating the incident. As patrol officers began the investigation, it was discovered that a drug dealer with an extensive criminal history was associating with the residence. As officer began watching the residence, Mr. Haggerty actively passed on real-time intelligence of what he was observing. He even allowed a video surveillance camera to be placed on his property to provide additional evidence of illegal activity. After a four-month investigation, patrol officers and SIU investigators obtained several search warrants for residences and vehicles. The search warrant yielded over 64 pounds of marijuana, and 17000 dollars in cash. The involved suspects were arrested and charged with several drug felonies. This investigation would not have been successful had it not been for the cooperation and assistance of Mr. Haggerty. His extraordinary cooperation and personal effort to clean up his neighborhood is an excellent example of service to his community, and deserving of recognition.
In July 2019, individuals had just begun a round of golf at Deer Run Golf Course. The golfers were playing the third hole at the course. John Ackerman and his fellow golfer, Dean Burger, were playing with these individuals, and noticed that one of them was now laying on the ground and was unresponsive. Unknown to the other golfers, the individual in crisis had just suffered a heart attack. Luckily, his two golf partners, Ackerman and Burger, were certified in CPR and First Aid. Instinct led both Burger and Ackerman to immediately run to Dick’s aid and begin administering CPR. The duo continued to perform CPR on their friend until the ambulance arrived. The cardiologist treating the heart attack victim installed a pacemaker the next day, and indicated that if it weren’t for the quick action of his golf partners beginning CPR the victim would not be alive. The cardiac victim was miraculously able to be back on the golf course the following week, and indicated his gratitude to the golf partners who saved his life. He also considers them both his guardian angels. These gentlemen are to be commended by their efforts to seek training, so that they could serve their fellow citizens in times of critical emergencies. They are truly worthy of the Chief’s Citation Award.
Thank you for viewing our 2020 City Wide Town Hall. We are making the slides available for you to view. Afterwards, please complete our questionnaire at www.siouxcitypolice.com/town-hall.
Read MoreUpdate - Sept. 12 at 12:15 p.m.
The victim of the murder that occurred on Sept. 11 at 2103 Nebraska St. was identified as 37-year-old Salahadin Adem of Sioux City.
The Sioux City Police Department wishes to express our sympathy to his family for their loss.
At this time, we are unable to release the name of the female victim who is recovering from her wounds.
As the investigation is on-going, no additional information will be released at this time.
Original release- Sept. 11 at 1:00 p.m.
On Sept. 11 at about 12:55 a.m., the Sioux City Police Department received a report of a stabbing at 2103 Nebraska St.
Responding officers located a 37-year-old adult-male and 43-year-old adult-female victim suffering from multiple stab wounds. Both victims were transported to MercyOne Medical Center for treatment.
The male victim succumbed to his injuries and the female is being treated for serious injuries.
A suspect was identified during the investigation and he was located at 2:23 a.m. walking in the 2400 block of Nebraska St.
Detectives have charged 54-year-old Michael A. Landrum of Sioux City with 1st Degree Murder and Willful Injury.
At this time, we are unable to release any more information as this is an on-going investigation.
The names of the victims are not being released at this time pending notification of next of kin.
The start of a new school year is an exciting and busy time for families. It is up to all of us to be safe and watch out for kids. Here are some safety tips we can all follow.
When Driving
• Use caution near schools, there will be increased traffic and pedestrians *WATCH FOR KIDS*
•Know your school’s traffic flow plan and follow it.
• Do not drive around school buses when the overhead lights are flashing red and the “STOP” sign is out.
• Please OBEY crossing guards
Kids
• Cross at corners or cross walks
• Obey crossing guard instructions
• When possible, walk with friends as there is strength in numbers
• Stay on sidewalks, do not cut through yards or alleys
• NEVER accept rides or get into the car with people you do not know.
Parents
• Walk the approved route to school with your child before school starts, this way you know where to look for your child if there is a problem
• Cover where safe places are to go for help like trusted adult’s houses, school, and businesses
• Discuss what you child should do if an unknown adult tries to get them to come to their car, in their house, or grabs them
• Tell them “No”
• Scream for help
Fight back if grabbed
• Know who your kids’ friends are and where they live and keep a list of addresses and phone numbers handy
Neighbors
• Keep an eye out for suspicious people or cars that seem to be paying attention to children walking or playing
• Keep sidewalks clear of debris or obstacles for pedestrians
Let’s all do our part to keep our kids SAFE!
On Aug. 16, at about 2:55 am, officers with the Sioux City Police Department heard shots being fired in the 400 block of W. 7th St.
Officer searched the area and located an adult male with a non-life threatening gunshot wound outside of the After Set Club (also referred to as Esquire), 414 W. 7th St.
Responding officers attempted to provide medical aide to the victim however, they were met with physical resistance form a crowd that had formed. Some members of the crowd threw rocks at officers as they attempted to secure the crime scene.
The victim was transported to MercyOne for treatment and was released.
Detectives are continuing their investigation into the shooting but victim is not cooperating.
The names of the parties involved are not being released at this time.
Detectives are seeking the identity of a man seen in surveillance cameras for the damage of three downtown business.
Read MoreOn Aug. 4th at 1:42 am, the Sioux City Police Department responded to a report of a burglary at Counseling & Support Services, 421 Nebraska St in which a suspect had broken a window out to gain entry. It was not known at the time of the investigation if anything was missing.
At 5:15 am, the department responded to a report of a broken window at Security National Bank, 601 Pierce St in which a window had been broken out to gain entry of a lobby area. At the time of the report, all that appeared to be missing was hand sanitizer.
At 5:46 am, officers responded to a burglary at Trattoria Fresco, 511 4th St. in which a window had been broken in order to gain entry. While investigating the burglary, officers located a man in the business.
Arrested was 39-year-old Mark Gray of Sioux City. He was charged for burglarizing all three businesses and booked into the Woodbury County Jail on three counts of 3rd degree Burglary.
On August 1 at 8:26 pm, the Sioux City Police Department received a report of a shooting in a residence in the 1600 block of W 2nd St.
Responding officers found that an adult-male was suffering from a life-threatening gunshot wound. The victim was transported to MercyOne where he succumbed to his injury during the early morning hours of Aug. 2.
A subject involved in the incident fled the residence and was later located in South Sioux City, Neb. and detained by the South Sioux City Police Department while the investigation into the shooting was conducted. Detectives with the Sioux City Police Department determined that the victim and subject detained in South Sioux City were handling the firearm involved when it discharged striking the victim.
Once the investigation is complete, the matter will be referred to the Woodbury County Attorney's Office for consideration of charges.
At this time, the names of the victim or parties involved are not being released.
The investigation into this matter in on-going.
The Sioux City Police Department arrested three people during the overnight hours of July 29 after pursuing a car involved in a report of shots being fired on the city’s near northside.
At about 12:56 am, officers responded to a report of male subject firing several shots into an unoccupied car that was parked in the 600 block of 13th St. causing damage to the car.
Witnesses described a red 2000 Chevy Impala as being the suspect vehicle involved in the shooting.
At 1:44 am, officers attempted to stop the Impala at W. 7th and Panoah St. but the driver refused to stop and attempted to elude officers at speeds around 100 miles per hour on the city’s west side.
The fleeing car stopped after officers attempted a pursuit intervention technique or PIT maneuver and the occupants were apprehended by officers after bailing out of the car.
Arrested was 20-year-old Jason Rice of Sioux City who was charged with Criminal Mischief 2nd.
19-year-old Darling Carrillo of Sioux City who was charged with felony Eluding, Reckless Driving, Operating While Intoxicated, and Driving While License Suspended.
31-year-old Kara Thomas of Sioux City who was charged with Possession of Methamphetamine and Drug Paraphernalia.
All three subjects were booked into Woodbury Count Jail.
We are seeking information on the person responsible of the vandalism of the President Lincoln statue at Grandview Park during the overnight hours of July 29.
the unknown suspect covered the statue in red paint that had to be removed by city crews.
If you have information on this or any crime, call Crime Stoppers at 258-TIPS (8477) or submit a tip via our website at siouxcitypolice.com/crime-stoppers.
During the over night hours of July 29, 2020 an unknown suspect vandalized the statue of President Lincoln in Grandview Park. Anyone with information on this...