JUST THE FACTS

December 5, 2025 Volume 16 Issue 49

THIS WEEK'S IN CUSTODY ARRESTS

Marianna Gaalswyk was formally charged with domestic assault and fleeing a police officer by other means than a motor vehicle, stemming from an incident on the 800 block of Elm Ave North on November 27th.
Steven Baynes was formally charged with threats of violence and domestic assault, stemming from an incident on the 200 block of 18th St SE on December 2nd.

Police Department Launches First-Ever Holiday Giving Tree

This holiday season marks an exciting new tradition at the Police Department with the launch of its first-ever Giving Tree, a program designed to bring comfort and cheer to local families in need. A festive tree—beautifully decorated and surrounded by donated items—is now on display in the department’s lobby. Community members are invited to stop by and donate new hats or gloves for others to take as needed. Likewise, if you or someone you know could benefit from these items, you are welcome to visit the lobby and pick up what you need—no questions asked.

This initiative originated from discussions a small group of our employees had at OPD. “They put all the work into getting this going, and I’m truly impressed with their initiative and passion to help others in our community,” said Captain Sorensen.

“We’re excited to introduce this new opportunity for our community to come together and support one another,” Sorensen added. “The holidays can be a challenging time for many families, and we hope this program brings a bit of joy and relief to those who need it.”

The Giving Tree will be available during normal business hours through December 23rd. Anyone wishing to donate or pick up a gift may do so by stopping at the Police Department (204 E. Pearl St.) between 8:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m.

The Police Department invites residents to help make this first year of the Giving Tree a success and to share in the spirit of generosity throughout the holiday season.

Owatonna Police Department Facilitates AED Donation to Owatonna Public Library

Left to right: Josh Sorensen, OPD Captain; Madison Nelson, U of M Center for Resuscitation Medicine; Val Satre, OPD Sergeant; Mark Blando, OPL Director; Jeff Mundale, OPD Chief.

The Owatonna Police Department (OPD) has facilitated the donation of an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) to the Owatonna Public Library (OPL), strengthening public access to lifesaving emergency equipment.

OPD became eligible to apply for the AED grant following Patrol Officer Julia Hansen’s successful use of her squad car’s AED to save an individual experiencing a cardiac event at the Four Seasons Center. The grant is part of the Hearts on Duty program, operated by AED manufacturer Stryker and funded through the University of Minnesota’s Center for Resuscitation Medicine. Through this program, law enforcement agencies that use a Stryker AED in a documented cardiac arrest save may receive an additional AED to donate to a nonprofit organization within their community. Program requirements specify that the donated AED be placed in a publicly accessible location.

Prior to this donation, OPL had just one AED available across its three floors. The addition of the new unit significantly improves emergency readiness.

“With more than 90,000 library visitors each year, staff are now better prepared to address a cardiac arrest within the first few critical minutes before emergency responders arrive,” said Police Chief Jeff Mundale. “We are pleased we were able to obtain this equipment at no charge to our community to help save lives and applaud Sergeant Val Satre’s diligence in pursuing this grant.”

The Owatonna Police Department remains committed to enhancing community safety through partnerships, preparedness, and proactive initiatives.