Award winners for 2019 announced

On 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.

Employee Awards

Officer of the Year – Carl Ragar

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.”

Civilian of the Year – Erica Vickery

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!

Achievement Award – Sergeant Jake Noltze

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.

Distinguished Service Award – Carissa Roach

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.

Chief’s Commendation – Heather Albrecht

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.

Lifesaving Award Lt. Judy Kellen and Officer Dan Hutton

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.

Life Saving Award — Nathan Niehus, Mackenzie Neely, Alan Schmeckpeper, and Dylan Grimsley

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.

Community Policing Award — Officers Brady Beach, Anthony Vondrak, Brennan Gill and Jeffery Demetri

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.

Community Policing Award – Lt. Kevin Heineman, Sergeant Scott Hatting, Sergeant Bill Melville, Officer Angela Kolker, Officer Nick Thompson

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.

Community Policing Award – Officer Brad Echter.

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.

Community Policing Award – Donette Sassman

 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.

Distinguished Service — All employees

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.

Citizen Awards

Chief’s Appreciation Award, - Adam Wheeldon, Marc Wheeldon and the local Siouxland McDonalds staff

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.

Chief’s Appreciation Award – Jack Haggerty

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.

Chief’s Citation Award - John Ackerman, Dean Burger

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.

One arrested for Sept. 11 murder

Update - 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.

School safety tips for kids and parents

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!

Detectives investigating early Sunday morning shooting outside club

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.

Man arrested for three downtown business burglaries

On 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.

Accidental shooting on W 2nd leaves one person dead

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.

Three arrested after pursuit of car involved in shots fired report

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.

Lincoln statue vandalized

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...

Suspect in Norfolk murder arrested in Sioux City

On July 24, information was obtained that 28-year-old Deshawn Gleaton of Norfolk Neb. who was wanted for a murder that had occurred that day was at an apartment complex in the 2600 block of S. Rustin St.

With the assistance from the United States Marshal’s Service, Iowa State Patrol, and the Woodbury County Sheriff’s Office, a search warrant was served for the apartment he was in during the early morning hours of July 26 and Gleaton was taken into custody without incident.

He was taken to Woodbury County Jail to await extradition.

Fatality accident on Vets Bridge leaves one man dean

Updated July 27 at 10:00 am

The name of the victim who died as a result of injuries sustained during an accident on Veterans Memorial Bridge on July 25 is 26-year-old Tyler Big Bow of Sioux City.

We want to express our sympathy to his family for their loss.

The accident remains under investigation.

ORIGINAL RELEASE on July 25 at 6:00 am

On 07-25-2020 Officers of the Sioux City Police Department responded to the Veteran's Memorial Bridge for a report of a single vehicle crash. The vehicle was driven by a 26 year old male. A female passenger and a male passenger were present in the vehicle as well. The driver was transported by ambulance to Mercy Medical Center where he was declared deceased due to the injuries sustained in the collision. Both passengers were also transported by ambulance to Mercy Medical Center; the female passenger for serious injuries and the male passenger for non life-threatening injuries.

The vehicle involved was a blue 2015 Chevy Equinox that was northbound on Veteran's Memorial Bridge. The driver lost control of the vehicle which then collided with a concrete barrier on the roadside, causing significant damage to the vehicle.

The names of the persons involved are not being released at this time. The incident continues to be under investigation.

Two men arrested for Near Northside home burglary

On July 23 at approximately 3:32 PM, officers of the Sioux City Police Department were dispatched to the 1600 block of Ingelside Ave for two males kicking in the back door of a residence.

Two males gained entry into the residence and threaten to injure an adult male and female. Both males fled on foot and were apprehended by SCPD three blocks away from the scene.

Trey RedOwl (28 years old) of Sioux City, IA was charged with Burglary 2nd, carrying a weapon, simple eluding, and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Michael Thomas Jr (28 years old) of Sioux City, IA was charged with Burglary 2nd and simple eluding.

The victims received no injuries during the encounter.

Man charged for setting numerous fires in Sioux City

The Sioux City Police Department has charged 45-year-old Howard Wanned of Sioux City with four counts of 3rd degree Arson and Ongoing Criminal Conduct after he set several fires along Interstate 29 between the Floyd River and Ravine Park Dr. on July 22 at around 1:00 pm.

A passerby reported one of the fires and several more were discovered by officers that responded. Detectives with the department that responded located Wanned walking away from a fire in the area of Ravine Park Dr. and S. Lewis Blvd.

On July 19 at about 2:52 pm, Wanned was arrested for setting a trash can on fire and also a pallet that he had leaned against shed at Pulaski Park, 2400 Vine Ave.

On that date, Wanned was also charged with 2nd degree Arson and 1st degree Criminal Mischief for a fire set on July 12 at 4607 Peters Ave after he lit the unoccupied house on fire causing damage to the house and a car parked in the garage.

Wanned was out on bail for previous charges when today’s incident occurred.

Members of Sioux City Fire and Rescue spray water on a fire set by Howard Wanned on July 22 along Interstate 29. Wanned was charged with Arson after setting several fires.

Independence Day is right around the corner

REMINDER, as the Fourth of July is fast approaching:

Fireworks are not legal to discharge until July 3 through July 4 from the hours of 1:00 P.M. until 11:00 P.M.

SAFETY TIPS to consider when celebrating Independence Day:

• Never allow young children to play with or ignite fireworks.
• Always have an adult supervise fireworks activities. Parents don't realize that young children suffer injuries from sparklers. Sparklers burn at temperatures of about 2,000 degrees - hot enough to melt some metals.
• Never place any part of your body directly over a fireworks device when lighting the fuse. Back up to a safe distance immediately after lighting fireworks.
• Never try to re-light or pick up fireworks that have not ignited fully.
• Never point or throw fireworks at another person.
• Keep a bucket of water or a garden hose handy in case of fire or other mishap.
• Light fireworks one at a time, then move back quickly.
• Never carry fireworks in a pocket or shoot them off in metal or glass containers.
• After fireworks complete their burning, soak the spent device with plenty of water from a bucket or hose before discarding it to prevent a trash fire.

***Sioux City Code and Violations***

19.20.030 Fireworks - Discharging General Requirements.

1. No person under the age 18 shall possess or discharge a consumer firework without parental supervision.

2. A person shall only discharge a consumer fireworks device on real property they own or on property where written consent has been given. Discharge of consumer fireworks in a public park, on a city owned property, or on a public roadway, street, or alley is strictly prohibited. The possession of consumer fireworks in a public park is strictly prohibited. 

3. Consumer fireworks shall not be possessed or discharged by persons showing visible signs of, or determined to be, intoxicated or under the influence of a drug or narcotic.

4. Any person discharging a consumer fireworks device assumes all responsibility for its operation and the consequences thereof. No person shall discharge a consumer fireworks device in a reckless manner or manner likely to cause death, injury, fire, or property damage.

5. No person shall discharge a consumer fireworks device outside the following dates and hours:

   1.  July 3 through July 4 from the hours of 1:00 P.M. until 11:00 P.M.

   2.  December 31 from the hours of 1:00 P.M. until 12:30 A.M. on January 1.

6. It shall be unlawful to alter, remove, or discharge components of a consumer fireworks device from its intended method of discharging.

7. Sky lantern open flame devices are not permitted to be released within the city limits, except if tethered by a retrievable rope so long as the person discharging has control over the sky lantern.

8. The City may, upon application in writing, grant a permit for the display of display fireworks on public property by a City agency, fair associations, amusement parks and other organizations or groups of individuals approved by City authorities when such display fireworks display will be handled by a competent operator. No permit shall be granted hereunder unless the operator or sponsoring organization has filed with the City evidence of insurance as required under Iowa Code Section 727.2, this Title, and pursuant to the current fire code adopted by the City of Sioux City.

19.20.070 Violations.

All violations of any provisions of this Chapter are hereby declared simple misdemeanors as follows:

1. Anyone violating the provisions of Section 19.20.030(2) relating to discharge of consumer fireworks in a public park, on a city owned property, or on a public roadway, street, or alley, shall upon conviction be fined a minimum amount of not less than $500 and punished as further provided in Section 1.04.100 of the Sioux City Municipal Code and pursuant to Iowa Code Section 727.2.

2. Anyone violating the provisions of Section 19.20.030(2) relating to possession of consumer fireworks in a public park shall upon conviction be fined a minimum amount of not less than $500 and punished as further provided in Section 1.04.100 of the Sioux City Municipal Code and pursuant to Iowa Code Section 727.2.

3. Anyone violating all other provisions of this ordinance shall upon conviction be fined a minimum amount of not less than $250 and punished as further provided in Section 1.04.100 of the Sioux City Municipal Code and pursuant to Iowa Code Section 727.2.

4. Violations of this Chapter shall be reported to the state fire marshal.

SCPD teams up with mental health professionals to serve those in crisis

By Sgt. Jeremy McClure, Community Policing Sergeant

In the Safe Policing for Safe Communities Executive Order Signed by the President recently, direction for police departments to partner with mental health providers when responding to people dealing with mental health, homelessness, and addiction was included. For the Sioux City Police Department, partnering with mental health professionals is business as usual.

“We seek to make these types of partnerships that improve the quality of service we can provide to the people we serve,” said Dutler “We often find that we are leaders in national trends and ahead of other departments in implementing these types of programs.”

One of those partnerships is with the Mobile Crisis Assessment Team or MCAT. The unit is composed of mental health professionals provide by the Sioux Rivers Assessment Regional Health & Disability Center that can respond with law enforcement to the location of the individual in crisis.

In 2019, the Sioux City Police Department documented over 2,800 times in which officers checked the welfare of someone. In many cases, the person being checked on were experiencing a crisis and could benefit from the help of a mental health professional. Initially, Sioux City officers had little available options for helping someone in crisis. Often, the only available option was to take them to a hospital emergency room. The partnership with MCAT has changed that.

“We send out two people trained in mental health and crisis intervention,” said Nicole Eaton, program director for Sioux Rivers. “The assessment team can then determine the level of care the person needs.”

Officers sent to check on a person determine if the matter is a mental health issue. After ensuring the safety of the scene, they will contact the MCAT and request that they come to their location. When MCAT arrives and determines that officers are not needed, then officers leave the person in the care of the MCAT. The team will then assess the person’s need for a higher level of care and if needed, will transport that person to a care facility or make appropriate referrals. The MCAT is available 24 hours a day and will respond within 60 minutes.

The MCAT was developed as part of a mandate from the State of Iowa for mental health service providers to create mobile assessment teams. Sioux Rivers was contracted by Rolling Hills Community Services Region to provide MCAT services.

“We recognized early on that there needed to be a partnership between MCAT and emergency responders in order to make this program work correctly,” said Eaton.

Seeing the opportunity to improve services provided to people in crisis or with mental health problems, the Sioux City Police Department embraced the program and trained all officers to utilize it.

“The chief has been very supportive in implementing the program,” said Officer Andrew Dutler who represents the department on the MCAT committee. “We started working with Sioux Rivers in implementing the MCAT in early 2019 and began utilizing it in November of 2019.”

For years the department has provided training to officers to help people with mental health problems and to better respond to people in emotional crisis. Some officers received additional specialized training to help in its response to people with mental health problems.  

“Although our officers received training on helping people with mental health problems or that are in crisis, the MCAT provides a higher level of specialized care and relieves officers from a non-criminal matter,” added Dutler.

Since partnering with the MCAT, the department called them out 47 times according to statistics compiled by Sioux Rivers. In 26% of the call outs, the person was taken to higher level of care and the other 74% were referred to other resources and diverted from hospital emergency rooms.

“The goal of our program is to not only assess children and adults to help determine safety and whether they need a higher level of care, but to also provide resources and follow-up support so that we can intervene in a cycle in which individuals are continually in crisis without knowing what to do or how to get help,” explained Eaton.

The partnership between the Sioux City Police Department and the MCAT continues to grow. Now with more attention being paid to how law enforcement can better serve those in our community with mental health issues, this partnership will undoubted be looked to as a successful model.

“Recently, we discussed further that with police reform being at the forefront in the nation, that it will be an even more valuable tool for law enforcement to utilize when responding to mental health related calls,” added Eaton. “We are committed to working with SCPD to strengthen that bond and partnership that we have developed over the last year and continue to work together to service our mental health community.”

Arrests made in overnight protests

UPDATED JUNE 6 - Name of a party that was arrested was omitted and another party’s name was mistakenly reported twice.

On May 31 at about 5:00 pm, a few protesters convened in front of the Sioux City Police Department. During the evening, the size of the crowd grew and it was estimated that up to 400 people were outside of the station at one point.

The protest continued past midnight and a handful of people tried to instigate more violent demonstrations. Several times, other members of the protest worked to keep things peaceful.

Officers thorough out the evening took steps to deescalate any conflict by removing themselves from areas the protesters were at.   

After midnight, members of the crowd became more aggressive and attempted to provoke officers. When their attempts failed to provoke a reaction from officers, people began throwing rocks and other objects at officers and patrol cars. Rocks were also thrown at the police station causing damage to a window.

Due to the fact that the crowd was becoming more violent, it was deemed an unlawful assembly and ordered to disperse at around 3:00 am. Several people refused that order and officers moved in to disperse them. During their attempts to disperse the crowd, rocks were thrown at officers striking several officers. Officers were forced to use some O.C. powder and spray to continue dispersing the violent crowd.

The following people were arrested.

-          Khatija J. Mills, 19-years-old, Sioux City, 2nd Degree Criminal Mischief

-          Mauke R. Butler, 28-years-old, Sioux City, Failure to Disperse

-          Dieo D. Okamba-Onolenga, 19-years-old, Sioux City, Simple Assault

-          Zaire Dean, 22-years-old, Sioux City, Unlawful Assembly

-          Nolan J. Warchorn, 22-years-old, Sioux City, Unlawful Assembly

-          Alvreez L. James, 23-years-old, Sioux City, Assault on a Peace Officer, Eluding a Peace Officer, Fail to Disperse

-          Colin t. Kochevar, 25-years-old, Sioux City, Unlawful Assembly

-          Joseph R. Smith, 38-years-old, Lawton, Unlawful Assembly

-          Hayley M. Gibson, 22-years-old, Sioux City, Unlawful Assembly

-          Keegan A. Kinzie, 20-years-old, Sioux City, Assault on a Peace Officer, Fail to Obey a Peace Officer, Failure to Disperse, Interference with Official Acts, Possession of a Control Substance

-          Aaliah R. Cruz, 18-years-old, Sioux City, Unlawful Assembly

-          Jada R. Swanson, 19-years-old, Sioux City, Unlawful Assembly

-          Siera Johnson, 19-years-old, Sioux City, Unlawful Assembly

-          Two juveniles were also arrested for failing to obey officers’ orders to disperse.  

Five officers received minor injuries when they were struck with rocks and assaulted by protesters during arrests. Numerous patrol cars were also damaged by the violent crowd.

The Sioux City Police Department supports the public’s 1st Amendment right to assembly and to protest peacefully and have demonstrated our support of people exercising this right. We are saddened that last night’s demonstration that started peacefully degraded to violence. We are thankful no one involved tonight was seriously injured. We will continue working with community groups to strengthen our relationships with members of the community and provide fair and equitable law enforcement services.