Welcome

We at the Estherville Police Department take pride in our department and community. We are active in the community, both socially and through the department, participating in school programs and community events. Many of our officers have children in the school system, and several officers are members of our community service groups.

We maintain a high level of proficiency by taking advantage of opportunities for continuing education. Faced with the constantly changing landscape of law enforcement, our officers attend special schools throughout the year. Many Estherville police officers are certified law enforcement instructors. These instructorships include pursuit driving, firearms, A.S.P. (expandable baton), defensive tactics, standardized field sobriety tests, Stop Stick tire deflation devices, Pursuit Intervention Tactic, D.A.R.E., and chemical munitions. Many of our officers are specialists in fields such as hostage negotiations, accident investigation, and youth gangs.

Please browse through the link titled "About Us", and get to know our department better!

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Click on link below for Drive Merry, Bright and Sober This Holiday Season.

STEP Dec release[17755].docx (156.9KB)

 
     CHIEF OF POLICE  |  BRENT SHATTO              114 North 6th St |  Estherville, IA 51334                                      (712) 362-3515
 
Date:  July 14, 2022
 
POLICE RECORDS REQUESTS
 
Custodian of Records:  Chief of Police Brent Shatto or Captain Nathaniel Dunlavy
 
Record requests will require a fee be paid in most instances. 
 
Requests for Calls Sheets or Driver Exchange:  Free if the request is made within 2 weeks of the incident.  If outside of 2 weeks, a $7 fee will apply to the request.
 
Records Requests for Case Reports and other documents:
          $27 per hour with a minimum charge of $15 if under 1 hour for time
          expended during search and completion of the request. 
 
          Copy of Report in paper or electronic form:  .25 per page with a minimum of
          $7.00.
 
          DVD/CD for photos, video and or audio:  $25.00 per disc
 
Accident Reports and Copies:  $7.00
 
All document fees are considered to be over and above the research fees.  

2022 Records Fees Sheet[14050].docx (158.1KB)

2022 April Media Release.doc (1.7MB)

Estherville Man Faces Numerous Charges Following Traffic Stop
 
On Tuesday, November 9th, 2021 at about 4:52 pm, an Estherville Police Officer conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle in the 400 Block of North 12th Street for a traffic violation.  It was determined that the driver of the truck was operating with a suspended drivers license.  Officers also smelled the odor of marijuana coming from within the vehicle.  The vehicle was occupied by a male driver and a juvenile male passenger. 
 
Officers conducted an investigation into the odor of marijuana.  The driver of the vehicle produced to officer several THC Vape Pens and 3 marijuana cigarettes.  Officer conducted a further search of the truck and located approximately ¼ pound of marijuana and approximately 1 ounce of marijuana wax. 
 
The driver of the truck was identified as 18year old Cruz Hernandez-Gonzalez of Estherville.  Cruz was arrested without incident and transported to the Emmet County Jail.  The17 year old juvenile male was released to the custody of a relative. 
Cruz Hernandez-Gonzalez was charged with Possession with Intent to Deliver Marijuana, A Class D Felony; Possession with Intent to Deliver Marijuana (Wax), A Class D Felony; Drug Tax Stamp Violation, A Class D Felony; Possession of Marijuana (THC Vape Pen), A Serious Misdemeanor; Failure to Obey Traffic Control Device; Driving While License Suspended, Failure to Prove Security Against Liability, and Possession of Tobacco as a Minor. 
 
A Criminal Charge is merely an allegation.  All suspects are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty by a court of law.  


Date:  November 9, 2021
Estherville Woman Arrested Following Threats
 
On Friday, October 29th during the early morning hours, Estherville Police Officers were called to take a report that a victim had a gun pointed at him with threats were made by the suspect. The victim also reported that the same suspect pointed a gun at him and his father while they were travelling on the streets of Estherville.
 
The Estherville Police Department conducted an investigation into the incident.  The suspect was identified by the victims as19-year-old Jodeci Holmes of Estherville. Holmes and an accomplice pulled into the the driveway at 926 North 4th Street,  where Holmes pointed a gun at the victim and made several threats. The victim contacted family members who responded to the area. Holmes and the responding family members got into a confrontation on the roadway.  Holmes pointed a gun at those two victims on more than one occasion while they were in their truck and during their confrontation.
 
Arrest warrants were requested for Jodeci Holmes for 2 Counts of Going Armed with Intent, A Class D Felony and 2 Counts of Harassment 1st Degree, an Aggravated Misdemeanor.  Holmes was arrested on the warrants on November 1st, 2021. Holmes was also later charged with another count of each, Going Armed with Intent, and 1st Degree Harassment. Holmes remains in jail with a bond amount of $75,000 cash.
 
Officers also seized and impounded a vehicle following the issuance of a search warrant. Officers executed the search warrant on a tan 2011 Chevrolet Malibu registered to Madison Valen. The vehicle was searched by officers and is being held as evidence at this time.
 
This investigation is ongoing and additional charges may be filed. If you have any information about this or any other crime, please contact the Estherville Police Department 712-362-3515.


Date: April 7, 2021
Ref: News Release
 
On Wednesday, April 7, 2021, the Estherville Police Department was called to 615 North 8th Street in Estherville in regard to dispute between two roommates. One of the persons involved was reported to be out of control and armed with a gun. 
 
Responding officers arrived on scene and were immediately met at the front door by a male subject.  While directing the male subject to a position to be handcuffed, another male subject came from the residence.  Officers determined that the first subject was the person that had been causing the problems inside of the house, while the second male was determined to be a victim. The male subject was taken into custody without incident.   The victim and another occupant were then removed from the residence. 
 
Alejandro Reyes, age 21, of Estherville was identified as the suspect.  Reyes allegedly had been involved in a dispute with one of his roommates.  The victim reported that Reyes had become upset today and had been shooting within the residence and outside of the residence and prior to officer’s arrival, had pinned the victim against a wall and fired two rounds at him.  Officers also noticed a vehicle parked in the yard that had a considerable amount of damage done to it.  The victim reported that Reyes was responsible for that damage and that he had done it earlier that morning. 
 
Investigating officers conducted a search of the residence.  As a result of that search, Officers located a .22 caliber rifle as described by the victim, evidence within the house that the gun had been fired, drugs, drug paraphernalia and a marijuana grow lab. 
 
Reyes was transported and booked into the Emmet County Jail and has been charged with Attempted Murder, a Class B Felony; Intimidation with a Dangerous Weapon, a Class C Felony; Criminal Mischief 2ndDegree Discharging a Firearm within the City Limits; Possession of Marijuana, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.
 
Officers were assisted on scene by the Emmet County Sheriff’s Office.
 
The investigation into this incident is ongoing and additional charges may be filed.
 
All suspects are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. 
 
 
 
  
 
Date: April 8, 2021
Ref: News Release
 
ESTHERVILLE MAN DIES AS A RESULT OF TRAFFIC ACCIDENT
 
On Wednesday, April 7th, 2021, at approximately 6:12 pm, 911Communications Operators received a call of a motorcycle and truck collision that occurred at the intersection of South 8th Street and 2ndAvenue South in Estherville.  The caller reported that the motorcyclist was injured and needed an ambulance.
 
Responding officers administered first aid along with local citizens and the Estherville Ambulance Service.  The driver of the motorcycle was identified as Samuel Woolery, age 25 of Estherville.  Samuel Woolery was transported to Avera Holy Family Hospital and later transferred to a hospital in Sioux Falls, South Dakota.  Samuel Woolery passed away as a result of the injuries sustained in the accident while in Sioux Falls. 
 
Investigating officers spoke with eyewitnesses on the scene who told officers that the motorcycle was traveling Eastbound on 2nd Avenue South, while the pick-up truck involved was traveling Northbound on South 8thStreet.  The pick-up truck collided with the motorcycle in the middle of the intersection.  The Intersection of South 8thStreet and 2nd Avenue South is an Uncontrolled Intersection.   Samuel Woolery was ejected from the motorcycle.  He was wearing a helmet.
 
The driver of the pick-up truck was identified as 35 year old Angel Ponce Archaga, of Estherville.  Ponce Archaga was questioned by investigating officers and placed under arrest for driving without a valid license.  He remains in the Emmet county jail on that charge.  There were three other occupants in the pick-up truck that reported they were not injured.  The occupants were wearing safety belts and the front airbags deployed.
 
The accident remains under investigation by the Iowa State Patrol and the Estherville Police Department. 
 
The Estherville Police Department was assisted at the scene by several local citizens, the Emmet County Sheriff’s Office, the Estherville Ambulance, Emmet County Emergency Management, the Emmet County Attorney’s Office and the Iowa State Patrol.  
                                                                                    
 
 
 
 
  

 

2020 Annual Report.docx (177.3KB)

Click on Above Link for access to the 2020 Annual report for the Estherville Police Department.

ESTHERVILLE WOMAN FACES CHARGES STEMMING FROM AN ASSAULT


On Sunday May 24th, 2020 at around 6:15 A.M. officers were dispatched to 315 South 8th Street for an unresponsive male who was cold to the touch.  Upon arrival on scene, officers located a male individual in a shed in the backyard of the property.  The male was lying on the ground and appeared to have sustained several injuries.  The male was transported by ambulance to Avera Holy Family Hospital and was later transported by ambulance to Sioux Falls for treatment of the injuries that he had sustained.  Officers began an investigation into the cause of the injuries.
Officers were initially informed that the male had fallen and sustained the injuries during the fall.  Officers obtained search warrants for the residence at 315 South 8th Street and collected evidence of a potential assault.  Officers began speaking with witnesses about what had taken place.  Through interviews with the witnesses and the victim officers were able to determine that Julissa Ramirez, of Estherville, was the individual responsible for the assault.  Ramirez struck the victim in the head multiple times with two different blunt objects causing severe injuries to the victim.  
On the 25th of May officers were able to obtain and execute a second search warrant for the property at 315 South 8th Street.  During the search officers were able to collect additional evidence from the property.  Ramirez was taken into custody at the conclusion of the search warrant and was transported to the Emmet County Law Enforcement Center.  After speaking with officers Ramirez was then placed under arrest and transferred into custody of the Emmet County Sheriff’s Office. At the conclusion of the investigation, Ramirez was charged with Willful Injury, a Class C Felony and Obstruction of Prosecution or Defense for attempting to conceal evidence of the crime.  The Emmet County Attorney’s Office assisted officers in the case.  Ramirez is being held on a $200,000 cash or surety bond at the Emmet County Jail.  
All subjects are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. 

Estherville Man Faces Charges Stemming from Burglaries On Monday, May 18th.

Officers of the Estherville Police Department received information from the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office in Minnesota about a stolen ATV that had been taken from a residence in Jackson County the previous night.  Officers received information from neighbors and other citizens about possible stolen property and criminal behavior taking place at 1827 North 6th Street.  Officers were able to confirm that an ATV was located in the garage at that residence that matched the description of the ATV stolen in Jackson County.  After being granted a search warrant officers executed and located the stolen ATV.  Riley Breiner was placed under arrest and charged with crimes connected to possessing the stolen ATV.  As a result of the original search warrant, officers were granted a second search warrant based finding additional stolen items, drugs and drug paraphernalia.   While officers were conducting a search of the residence, a stolen firearm and other items taken from a second burglary in that occurred the week previous in Jackson County, MN.  Officers also recovered several tools and other items from two previous burglaries from Estherville.  Officers also located and recovered two additional illegal firearms during the search.  Officers located several items of paraphernalia, small amounts of marijuana, and other narcotics that were collected during the search.  The investigation is ongoing and further charges could be filed in this case. Riley Breiner, of Estherville, was charged in connection with the search warrant with Ongoing Criminal Conduct a Class B Felony, Theft of a Motor Vehicle a Class D Felony, two counts of Burglary 3rd Degree each a Class D Felony, Theft in the 2nd Degree a Class D Felony, Trafficking in Stolen Weapons a Class D Felony, Possession of Burglar’s Tools an Aggravated Misdemeanor, Possession of a Controlled Substance Marijuana 2nd Offense a Serious Misdemeanor, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia a Simple Misdemeanor. The Estherville Police Department was assisted in the investigation by the Jackson County, MN Sheriff’s Office, The Emmet County Attorney’s Office, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms.  The Estherville Police Department would like to encourage the public to report any crimes or suspicious activity to the Estherville Police Department.  All defendants are innocent until proven guilty in the court of law. 

                                  Wanted

The Estherville Police Department is looking for historical photographs of the Police Department, Police Officers, Police vehicles and so on.  If you have a photograph(s) or other items that may be of interest to us and others please let us know and we will make a copy of what you share with us.  We will make notation with your name and items you contribute if you wish to be named.  Your items do not have to be "historical" yet to be of significance to this project.  Thank you for your consideration.

 Items can be emailed to epd@cityofestherville.org Sent by US Mail to 114 North 6th Street Estherville Iowa 51334, Dropped off at the Police Department Call to have an Officer pick up your contribution (But lets wait to drop off or arrange for pick up of items until this COVID-19 is cleared up) 

 

 

 
 
 
 
CHIEF OF POLICE  |  BRENT SHATTO  |  114 North 6th St |  Estherville, IA 51334  |  (712) 362-3515
­
 
Date: Monday April 20, 2020
Ref: News Release     
 
ESTHERVILLE OFFICER INJURED
SUSPECT IN CUSTODY
 
On Saturday, April 18, 2020 at approximately 2:30 pm, Estherville Police Officers were called to 421 ½ South 9th Street regarding threats that were made at that residence.  It was determined that the suspect had left the residence prior to the officers’ arrival. The suspect had threatened to burn down the house. 
 
The suspect was identified at the scene by the reporting party as 18-year-old Grace Hrbek of Estherville. 
An officer had noticed the suspect in question walking in the area prior to his arrival at the residence.  The officer went to the location where he had last seen the suspect and confronted her in the 800 Block of South 12th Street.  The suspect had a cigarette lighter in her hand.  When questioned about he lighter, the suspect stated that she was going to start the grass on fire and made an attempt to light the grass. She also attempted to light her jacket on fire while talking to the officer.  Officers spent a considerable amount of time trying to get the female suspect to comply with their directives to drop the lighter.  An officer attempted to take control of the suspect and the lighter when the suspect brandished a knife that she had concealed on her person and struck the officer with it in the left forearm.  The knife caused a laceration to the officers’ arm. Grace Hrbek was then taken into custody by officers and transported to Avera Holy Family Hospital for an evaluation. She was later transported and booked into the Emmet County Jail on numerous charges. 
 
Grace Hrbek was charged with Willful Injury, a Class C Felony; Assault on a Peace Officer, a Class D Felony; and Going Armed with Intent, a Class D Felony. Hrbek remains in the Emmet County Jail on bond. 
 
The officer was treated at Avera Holy Family Hospital for his injuries and released. 
  

Date: March 26, 2020
Ref: News Release
 
ESTHERVILLE POLICE RESPOND TO POSSIBLE ROBBERY
AND FIRE
 
On Thursday morning, March 26th,at approximately 9:40 a.m., Estherville Police Officers and Emmet County Sheriff’s Deputies were dispatched to Northwest Bank.  The reporting party advised that there was a male suspect in the drive through banking lanes waving a gun and had a bandanna on.  The caller stated that she believed the gun was not real but was not sure.  The suspect also pointed the weapon at the bank camera and pulled the trigger.  It was also reported that there were at least two other people in the vehicle.
 
Officers and Deputies responded to the bank drive up and confronted the suspects. The suspects complied with the direction of the Officers.  Two male suspects were detained during the investigation.  Following the investigation, it was determined that the gun was a toy but bank video confirmed that the suspect had pulled the bandanna up around his mouth and nose several times during the incident. 
 
Officers identified the suspect with the gun and mask as Simon Berihu Gebrehiwot, age, 20 of Worthington, Minnesota.  Gebrehiwot was placed under arrest for 1st Degree Harassment. It was also determined that Gebrehiwot had an outstanding warrant for his arrest through the Minnesota Department of Corrections for Parole Violation with the original charge being “Threats of Violence”. 
 
He was transported to the Emmet County Jail where he was booked in and awaits an initial appearance before a magistrate.  The other occupants in the vehicle, including a small child were released without charges following the initial investigation.  More charges in this case may be pending.
 
While Officers were at Northwest Bank,they were dispatched to 939 North 5th Street for a fire.  The caller reported that there was a pull-type camper fully engulfed in flames parked in the driveway.  Estherville Police, Emmet County Sheriff’s Deputies and the Estherville Fire Department arrived on scene.  It was determined that the camper had been occupied at the time of the fire but that the occupants were able to escape with only minor smoke inhalation. 
 
All suspects are presumed innocent until proven guilty by a court of law.  

Date: March 17, 2020
Ref: News Release
 
ESTHERVILLE POLICE TEMPORARY
CHANGES RESPONSES TO CALLS FOR SERVICE
 
The Estherville Police Department will be adjusting our response to calls for service during this outbreak of Covid-19.  Our number 1 priority is for the safety of our community and our officers. Officers will be patrolling our city as always.  There will be no changes in those proactive strategies.
 
We will still be responding to all emergencies as we always have.  
 
As for calls for service, we encourage everyone to continue to call the police department with all police matters that they have.  Rather than dispatch an officer to you, we may ask if it is appropriate for the officer to contact you by telephone.  If an officer needs to meet with you at your business or residence, they may ask to meet you outside.  This will allow the officers to maintain the“social distance” recommendation.  
 
These temporary changes in how we are responding to calls for service is for your safety and protection, as well as,the safety of the responding officers.  We will continue this practice until the threat has dissipated.  Thank you for your understanding.  
 
If you have questions and concerns about Covid-19 you can call the Iowa Department of Public Health Covid-19 informational number 211.   

Date:  March 6, 2020
Ref:  News Release
 
DRINKING GREEN BEER?  CALL A DESIGNATED DRIVER!
If you are heading out to a St. Patrick’s Day celebration this year, make sure you have more than just the luck o’ the Irish on your side.  This holiday, March 17, 2020, is one of the biggest drinking nights of the year and this, unfortunately, means more impaired drivers on the roads.  Drunk driving accounts for nearly one-third of vehicle related fatalities in the United States.  Nationally, in 2018 alone, 73 people (39% of all crash fatalities) were killed in drunk-driving crashes over the St. Patrick’s Day holiday period and 33% of the pedestrians aged 16 and older killed in crashes had a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) at or above .08.  In 2019 in Iowa, there were two crashes over the holiday which killed four people.  
To combat the increased impaired driving around the holiday the Estherville Police Department, the Emmet County Sheriff’s Office along with other state and local law agencies will be stepping up traffic enforcement March 14 – 17, 2020.  Officers will especially be watching for drunk and drugged drivers and anyone not wearing seat belts.  
Drinking and driving should never be combined.  It’s essential to plan a sober ride in advance if the holiday celebration will include alcohol.  The alternative could change your life, not to mention the lives of your passengers, pedestrians, or other drivers and passengers nearby.  Celebrate St.Patrick’s Day responsibly!  
The Iowa Department of Public Safety and the Governor’s Traffic Safety Bureau remind you, driving while impaired is illegal!
If you feel different,you drive different!
 
Media contact: Genie Sterbenz, GTSB Program Administrator, (515) 725-6121  

­Date: March 6, 2020
Ref: News Release
 
MULTIPLE AGENCIES INVOLVED IN ARREST OF COUNTERFEIT CURRENCY SUSPECT
 
On Friday, February 28th,2020, the Estherville Police Department received a report of a suspect that had passed a counterfeit $100 bill at a local hardware store.  The owner of the store reported that while he was running the cash register at the store, he noticed that there was a bill that was counterfeit.  The store owner asked a near by cashier about the bill at the same time that the suspect had returned to the store to use another bill. The suspect became nervous and ran out of the store.  The store owner followed the suspect out of the store in an attempt to gather his vehicle information.  The suspect got in his vehicle and fled the area.  The store owner followed the suspect and called the police.  The suspect fled at a high rate of speed and was last seen near Dolliver.  Emmet County Sheriff’s Deputies were dispatched to the area in an attempt to locate the suspect. 
 
Estherville Police Officers responded to the store and were able to view video of the suspect and the vehicle.  Officers forwarded photos of the suspect and vehicle to officers that were out looking for the suspect.  Deputies in Martin County Minnesota were also advised that the suspect may becoming into their county. 
 
A Martin County Deputy was able to positively identify the suspect from the vehicle description and the photos obtained from the hardware store. The suspect was identified as Erik V. Godwin,age 39, of Dunnell, Minnesota. 
 
 Estherville Officers also forwarded information to the Fairmont Police Department and the Martin County Sheriff’s Office of an address that the suspect may be at in the City of Fairmont. There were also warrants issued from a previous case filed by the Estherville Police Department for Godwin.  Officers from Fairmont Police Department and Martin County Sheriff’s Office went to the residence in Fairmont and captured the suspect fleeing from an apartment building.
 
Godwin was arrested by the Martin County Sheriff’s Office and transported to the Martin County Jail by the Fairmont Police Department.  Godwin was also found to be in possession of additional counterfeit $100 bills during his arrest. 
 
Godwin faces a tremendous amount of charges in Minnesota and Iowa as a result of this one-day crime spree.  In Minnesota, he was charged with Possession of Counterfeit Currency, Possession of Marijuana, Driving After Suspension,Fleeing a Police Officer, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.
 
In Iowa Godwin faces the following.  5 Outstanding Emmet County Arrest Warrants, 2 Counts of Forgery, 4 Counts of Failure to Obey Traffic Control Device, Driving While Suspended, Excessive Speed, Reckless Driving, Unsafe Passing, and Ongoing Criminal Conduct. 
 
Godwin remains in the Martin County Jail and will later face extradition to Emmet County to face his charges.
 
The Estherville Police Department would like to thank the store management and employees for their assistance in solving this case, as well as, the Emmet County Sheriff’s Office, the Martin County Sheriff’s Office, and the Fairmont Police Department.   

Date:  November 25, 2019

                             
 
ESTHERVILLE POLICE SEEK INFORMATION IN BURGLARY
 
 The Estherville Police Department is seeking information regarding a burglary that occurred in the 300 Block of North 2nd Street at a storage facility.  The burglary was reported to police on November 23rd, 2019. 
 
The victim of the burglary reported that sometime after 7 p.m. on November 22nd, and 3 p.m. on November 23rd,his storage facility was broken into located in the 300 Block of North 2nd Street.  The victim reported that he was missing a large amount of electronic music related equipment.  Also stolen in the burglary was a laptop computer.  The value of the property stolen exceeds $4,600.00. 
 
Investigating Officers are asking that anyone that may have seen a suspicious vehicle in the area at the time or any persons to please contact the Estherville Police Department at 712-362-3515,contact us via email at esthervillepd@gmail.com, or message us on the Estherville Police DepartmentFacebook Page.  

 

 
 
 
 
CHIEF OF POLICE  |  BRENT SHATTO  |  114 North 6th St |  Estherville,IA 51334  |  (712) 362-3515
­
 
 
 
Date:  November 25, 2019                                                            Contact Information:  Brent Shatto
Ref:  News Release                                                                                                                     Chief of Police
                                                                                                                                                           712-362-3515
 
ESTHERVILLE POLICE SEEK INFORMATION IN BURGLARY
 
 The Estherville Police Department is seeking information regarding a burglary that occurred in the 300 Block of North 2nd Street at a storage facility.  The burglary was reported to police on November 23rd, 2019. 
 
The victim of the burglary reported that sometime after 7 p.m. on November 22nd, and 3 p.m. on November 23rd,his storage facility was broken into located in the 300 Block of North 2nd Street.  The victim reported that he was missing a large amount of electronic music related equipment.  Also stolen in the burglary was a laptop computer.  The value of the property stolen exceeds $4,600.00. 
 
Investigating Officers are asking that anyone that may have seen a suspicious vehicle in the area at the time or any persons to please contact the Estherville Police Department at 712-362-3515,contact us via email at esthervillepd@gmail.com, or message us on the Estherville Police DepartmentFacebook Page.  

Date:  November 25, 2019                                                            Contact Information:  Brent Shatto
Ref:  News Release                                                                                                                     Chief of Police
                                                                                                                                                           712-362-3515
 
ESTHERVILLE POLICE SEEK INFORMATION IN BURGLARY
 
 The Estherville Police Department is seeking information regarding a burglary that occurred in the 300 Block of North 2nd Street at a storage facility.  The burglary was reported to police on November 23rd, 2019. 
 
The victim of the burglary reported that sometime after 7 p.m. on November 22nd, and 3 p.m. on November 23rd,his storage facility was broken into located in the 300 Block of North 2nd Street.  The victim reported that he was missing a large amount of electronic music related equipment.  Also stolen in the burglary was a laptop computer.  The value of the property stolen exceeds $4,600.00. 
 
Investigating Officers are asking that anyone that may have seen a suspicious vehicle in the area at the time or any persons to please contact the Estherville Police Department at 712-362-3515,contact us via email at esthervillepd@gmail.com, or message us on the Estherville Police DepartmentFacebook Page.  

Press Release11/19/2019 

The Estherville Police Department along with the Emmet County Sheriff’s Office is in the process of updating our records management system at the Emmet County Law Enforcement Center.  We would like to have all businesses within Emmet county log onto the City of Estherville’s website and fill out a webform with your business contact information. The webform on the city’s website is located on the lower left-hand side of the website.  A link to the webform is also on the Estherville Police Departments Website and Facebook page.The form is for businesses, buildings, other unoccupied structures such as a storage facility, empty building, or anything else that we could get a call to and need to be able to contact the owner or representative.  This information will assist all emergency services within Emmet County contact the owner or representative of all buildings or structures. As mentioned, this service is for all of Emmet County and each city within. This is not a new program, but merely an attempt to update our records.Alternatively, the form is also available to pick up at the Emmet County Law Enforcement Center (Police Department) to fill out if you wish. 

­Date: March 6, 2020
Ref: News Release
 
MULTIPLEAGENCIES INVOLVED IN ARREST OF COUNTERFEIT CURRENCY SUSPECT
 
On Friday, February 28th,2020, the Estherville Police Department received a report of a suspect that had passed a counterfeit $100 bill at a local hardware store.  The owner of the store reported that while he was running the cash register at the store, he noticed that there was a bill that was counterfeit.  The store owner asked a near by cashier about the bill at the same time that the suspect had returned to the store to use another bill. The suspect became nervous and ran out of the store.  The store owner followed the suspect out of the store in an attempt to gather his vehicle information.  The suspect got in his vehicle and fled the area.  The store owner followed the suspect and called the police.  The suspect fled at a high rate of speed and was last seen near Dolliver.  Emmet County Sheriff’s Deputies were dispatched to the area in an attempt to locate the suspect. 
 
Estherville Police Officers responded to the store and were able to view video of the suspect and the vehicle.  Officers forwarded photos of the suspect and vehicle to officers that were out looking for the suspect.  Deputies in Martin County Minnesota were also advised that the suspect may becoming into their county. 
 
A Martin County Deputy was able to positively identify the suspect from the vehicle description and the photos obtained from the hardware store. The suspect was identified as Erik V. Godwin,age 39, of Dunnell, Minnesota. 
 
 Estherville Officers also forwarded information to the Fairmont Police Department and the Martin County Sheriff’s Office of an address that the suspect may be at in the City of Fairmont. There were also warrants issued from a previous case filed by the Estherville Police Department for Godwin.  Officers from Fairmont Police Department and Martin County Sheriff’s Office went to the residence in Fairmont and captured the suspect fleeing from an apartment building.
 
Godwin was arrested by the Martin County Sheriff’s Office and transported to the Martin County Jail by the Fairmont Police Department.  Godwin was also foundto be in possession of additional counterfeit $100 bills during his arrest. 
 
Godwin faces a tremendous amount of charges in Minnesota and Iowa as a result of this one-day crime spree.  In Minnesota, he was charged with Possession of Counterfeit Currency, Possession of Marijuana, Driving After Suspension,Fleeing a Police Officer, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.
 
In Iowa Godwin faces the following.  5 Outstanding Emmet County Arrest Warrants, 2 Counts of Forgery, 4 Counts of Failure to Obey Traffic Control Device, Driving While Suspended, Excessive Speed, Reckless Driving, Unsafe Passing, and Ongoing Criminal Conduct. 
 
Godwin remains in the Martin County Jail and will later face extradition to Emmet County to face his charges.
 
The Estherville Police Department would like to thank the store management and employees for their assistance in solving this case, as well as, the Emmet County Sheriff’s Office, the Martin County Sheriff’s Office, and the Fairmont Police Department.   

Estherville Police and Avera Holy Family Hospital to Participate in DEA National Drug Take Back Day


The Estherville Police Department has joined forces once again with Avera Holy Family Hospital and the Drug Enforcement Administration to participate in another drug take back day. This Saturday, October 26, 2019 from 10 am to 12 pm, folks are encouraged to drop off unused prescription medications. The event will be held at the North Entrance to Avera Holy Family Hospital.The program, conducted nationwide, will focus on removing potentially dangerous controlled substances from our nation’s medicine cabinets. This national take-back day will provide a unified opportunity for the public to surrender expired, unwanted, or unused pharmaceutical controlled substances and other medications to law enforcement officers for destruction and will bring national focus to the issue of pharmaceutical drug abuse. The program provides an opportunity for law enforcement, prevention,treatment and business communities to collaborate and establish a safe collection site for all Americans,regardless of where they reside.The disposal of unused medications safely is the key to this program. Unused medicines should not be dumped in the trash nor flushed down the toilet and they should not be left in your medicine cabinet.These unused drugs can be stolen or taken by people with ill intentions. The drugs can be sold or abused.  Please join us this Saturday in the proper disposal of your unused medicine by dropping them off in our take back box located at the Main Entrance of Avera Holy Family Hospital. 

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Business Contact / Key Holder Information

Please take a moment to go to the City of Estherville's website and complete a Business Contact / Key Holder Information sheet for your Business or any other building or structure that you would like us to have the current contact information available in case of an emergency.


All Business's in Emmet County are encouraged to submit the form as it will go in the database to assist in all emergencies in our county, Fire / EMS / Law Enforcement.

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ARRESTS MADE IN DEATH CASE

September
 
On Monday January 29th, 2018 Estherville Officers were dispatched to a local residence for a report of an unresponsive 27-year-old male. Despite resuscitation attempts by Estherville Police,Estherville Ambulance, and Avera Holy Family E.R. staff; Matthew John Strayer was pronounced dead.  Strayer was later transported to the Iowa Office of the State Medical Examiner for an autopsy. 
            An exhaustive investigation was immediately undertaken by the Estherville Police Department. Following this investigation and working in conjunction with the Emmet County Attorney, warrants were issued for the arrest of Lance Alan Rosburg and Jeremy Jon Polzin. Rosburg has been charged with Involuntary Manslaughter (Class D Felony), 2 counts of Delivery of Methamphetamine (Class C Felony), Possession with Intent to Deliver Methamphetamine (Class B Felony),Delivery of Marijuana (Class D Felony), Possession with Intent to Deliver Marijuana (Class D Felony), Gatherings Where Controlled Substances Unlawfully Used (Class D Felony), 2 counts Failure to Affix a Drug Tax Stamp (Class D Felony). Polzin has been charged with Delivery of Methamphetamine (Class C Felony) and Gatherings Where Controlled Substances Unlawfully Used (Class D Felony).
            The Estherville Police Department would like to thank the Emmet County Sheriff’s Office, Estherville Ambulance Service, Avera Holy Family Hospital, Iowa Office of the State Medical Examiner,The United States Attorney’s Office, the Emmet County Attorney’s Office and the Estherville citizens for their assistance in this case.
All individuals are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. 

July 25, 2019

 
 
 
 
                      
 
Date:  July 25th, 2019                                                              Contact Information:  Brent Shatto
Ref:  News Release                                                                                                     Chief of Police
                                                                                                                                    712-362-3515
 
7-Year-Old Rescued from Water Tower
 
Estherville, IA – On Thursday, July 25, 2019, at 10:05 am, the Estherville Police Department was contacted in regard to a missing 7-year old female with Autism.
 
 Responding Officers began an immediate search of the area and contacted additional officers for assistance.  Estherville Officers requested the assistance immediately of the Drone used by the Emmet County Emergency Manager, Travis Sheridan.  While the Drone was responding to the scene, a family member located the child and directed responding officers to a water tower located near the family residence.  The City of Estherville Water Tower is located between North 8th Street and North 9th Street just North of 14th Avenue North. 
 
Officers found the child near the top deck of the water tower clinging to the ladder.  Officers and Firefighters on scene located a tarp nearby and fashioned a catch area beneath the child in the event that she would fall.  Officers requested the Estherville Fire Department to respond with their ladder truck to assist in the rescue of the child. 
 
The Estherville Fire Department arrived on scene with the ladder truck and elevated it to the child.  It was then determined that the child had her head stuck between two rungs of the ladder and could not get out.  The Estherville Fire Department was assisted by the City of Estherville Electrical Department in taking equipment to the basket of the ladder truck to cut the child free. 
 
The firefighters brought the child to the ground where she was examined by Paramedics and EMT’s of the Estherville Ambulance Service. She was then released to her parents.
 
Also assisting the operation were employees of the City of Estherville Water Department. 
 
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Now Hiring!!! Applicants that pass all tests will be considered for current and future openings in the Coop.Lakes Area Law Enforcement Agencies are conducting another Peace Officer Test. Applicants can be eligible for any of the 11 member agencies. Go to the Dickinson County Sheriff’s Office website to apply and get additional details. Closing of applications will be October 19th, 2018. 

We would like to take this way overdue opportunity to introduce our newest police officer, Matt Adams. Matt is a recent Iowa State University graduate. He is from Swea City and was a Police Reserve Officer in Algona.Matt is pictured here following his Oath of Office given by Mayor Kenny Billings.Matt is doing a great job and is a great addition to our staff.Welcome Matt! 

Investigation into Infants Death On Going Contact Information: SAC Darrell Simmons 712-322-1585 The death of an 11-month-old child is under investigation in Estherville, Iowa.On June 4, 2018 at approximately 2:48 p.m. Jasmine Rodriguez Sebastian was taken to Avera Holy Family Hospital in Estherville and subsequently transferred to Avera McKennan Hospital in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. Jasmine passed away at Avera McKennan Hospital on June 6, 2018.The Estherville Police Department, Emmet County Attorney’s Office, Iowa Department of Human Services and the Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation are investigating the circumstances surrounding Jasmine’s death.There will be no additional information available to the media at this time. Questions can be directed to SAC Darrell Simmons. 

EMMET COUNTY VETERANS MEMORIAL PARK: The new Veterans Memorial Park will have a Police Officer, Fire Fighter, and EMS Section that will be in addition to honoring all of our Warriors that have served in the armed forces.You can purchase a memorial brick to be laid in the park with your special persons information on it. A Veteran, Police Officer, Fire Fighter, or EMS Provider, that served honorably and has ties to Emmet County is eligible to have a brick in their name.Cost of the bricks are $100. Applications can be pricked up at the City of Estherville Parks and Recreation Office at City Hall, You can call 712-362-3575 and ask for Dawn with any questions.You can also make a cash donation to the park!! Make checks payable to the City of Estherville....Memo Line " Veterans Memorial Park" and can be mailed to Emmet County Veterans Affairs at 609 1st Avenue North Estherville, IA 51334 

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Mayor Swears in new Police Reserve officers:   Congratulations Steve Turner, Madelyn Samuelson, Katelyn Kilpatrick and Emily Behrends.  Welcome to the Estherville Police Reserves. - From the Estherville News (read more...)

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Estherville Businesses Report Attempted Scams:   On January 6th, 2015 during the evening hours, Estherville Police took reports from several business owners about an attempted scam.  (read more...)

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West Des Moines Man Arrested After Foot Pursuit:   On 12-13-15 at spproximately 0315 Estherville Police were investigating a disturbance on the ILCC Campus when they encountered a man who appeared to be intoxicated.  (read more...)