Lonsdale Chief of Police resigns after suspension

By Wade Young

Montgomery Messenger

Lonsdale’s Police Chief Joe Kastner resigned last week amid allegations of misconduct and misuse of the internet and e-mail while on the job.

Lonsdale Mayor Tim Rud said he received an anonymous complaint at city hall about possible misconduct by Chief Kastner.

After Kastner was questioned by Mayor Rud and Lonsdale City Administrator Joel Erickson, he was suspended. Later, he resigned.

Rud said an investigation into the computer system at the police department continues. It was turned over to Rice County Sheriff Richard Cook’s office, then it was forwarded to the Steele County Sheriff’s Office to avoid a conflict of interest.

Kastner has been the Chief of Police for Lonsdale since 1999. He has worked for the city since 1997.

Rud said he has done a good job for the city and has started several good programs, including a canine program and National Night Out.

“It is an unfortunate situation,” Rud said.

Rud added the absence of Kastner on the police force in no way jeopardizes the protection of the city. He said he met last week with Sheriff Cook’s department who will take over Kastner’s shifts until a replacement is found.

In addition to Kastner, the city also has three full-time police officers and several part-time officers.