JUST THE FACTS

August 1st, 2025 Volume 16 Issue 31

THIS WEEK'S IN CUSTODY ARRESTS

Jonathan Gomez Zamora was formally charged with domestic assault by strangulation, domestic assault, and threats of violence-reckless disregard risk stemming from an incident on July 26th.
Jason Curtis was formally charged with order for protection violation stemming from an incident on July 26th.
Felix Palms was formally charged with domestic assault by strangulation, domestic assault, and stalking stemming from an incident on July 27th.
Mark Seefus and Mark Schumacher were both formally charged with theft stemming from an incident on July 31st. Due to recent theft of copper complaints in the industrial park area, an action request was created for extra patrol in the area. While checking of this action request, an officer came in contact with Seefus and Schumacher in the act of stealing a pickup bed full of copper.

FIRST RESPONDERS IN THE COMMUNITY

Owatonna Police Department, Owatonna Fire Department, and Mayo Ambulance Service were all invited to attend and participate in the Adaptive Baseball Game First Responders Night.

Adaptive Recreation provides a diverse range of enjoyable activities for both children and adults who have distinctive ways of moving, communicating, or processing information. The program emphasizes inclusivity and offers adaptive formats to ensure that everyone can have fun and connect with others throughout the year. Everyone is welcome to join in the fun, get active, and enjoy the great outdoors together!

2025 Night to Unite celebrations are right around the corner. Join neighbors across Owatonna on Tuesday, August 5th, 2025, for the Annual Minnesota Night to Unite celebration, formally recognized as National Night Out. You are invited to be a part of this community and nation-wide event to celebrate “America’s Night to Unite Against Crime.” Currently there are 29 registered block parties the Owatonna Police Department will be visiting and answering questions on neighborhood concerns. School supply donations will be collected during the block parties for the Children’s Remedial Fund.

The Power of the Blinker

There is one small habit that all drivers can do behind the wheel that can make a huge difference in helping everyone get home safe to our families – using turn signals. Using your blinker might seem minor, but it's key for safer roads and smoother traffic. Here's why:

Show your intentions: Your signal tells drivers, bikers and walkers exactly what you're about to do. Turn it on early for turns or lane changes. This gives others time to react, avoiding sudden stops, confusion and crashes.
Ease up traffic jams: Signals also help traffic flow smoothly. When we all signal, things become more predictable, meaning less hesitation, smoother braking and fewer frustrating backups.
Reduces stress and road rage: Clear signals mean less stress and less road rage for everyone. No more guessing what the car in front of you is doing.

A small act like signaling can have a significant, positive impact when adopted by many. Let's team up to make our roads safer. Every time you signal, you're actively helping to prevent crashes and making sure we all – our coworkers, friends and neighbors – get where we're going safely.