Local News

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Power 96 News Brief 4-26

04/26/2024

An ethanol plant in Albert Lea has received a fine for air quality violations. POET Biorefining has been fined almost $53,000 for violating air permit conditions. The violations included emitting more particulate matter and volatile organic compounds than allowed by permit between 2018 and 2023. There were five total violations including Failure to conduct daily emissions observations on several pieces of equipment during the second half of 2021 and first half of 2022 reporting periods.

Child Poronography will send a north Iowa man to federal prison. Thomas Newman pleaded guilty to possession of child pornography after the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children launched an investigation and Newman eventually confessed after being arrested. Newman was sentenced to six years in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release, and ordered to pay $30,000 in fines and assessments. Newman must also register as a sex offender.

The Albert Lea Police Department and Freeborn County Sheriff"s Office invites residents to bring their unwanted medications to a collection program Saturday, from 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. in the parking lot of Wal-Mart, 1550 Blake Ave.There is no cost for disposal and it is confidential. Any medication may be dropped off, but no needles. The law enforcement officers will take all medications collected to an incinerator for final disposal. At the last Albert Lea take back event in October 2023, officers collected 30 pounds of medication that was incinerated in a safe and environmentally friendly way.

A Mower County woman has been sentenced after pleading guilty to assault charges. Nikki Rae Heitland faced charges of second-degree assault and third-degree assault after reportedly throwing a knife and a chair at her boyfriend, then punched him in the face which resulted in the boyfriend suffering a broken nose. As part of a deal with prosecutors, Heitland entered a guilty plea to misdemeanor domestic assault.

A Rochester man will now stand trial after pleading guilty to child pornography charges. Brandyn Kane has pleaded not guilty to disseminating pornographic work featuring a minor under 14 and possession of pornographic work featuring a minor under 14. Rochester police received a tip about material being uploaded to a social media app and began an investigation. Kane would pose as a young girl and talk to other men interested in child porn online, then send the men photos of younger girls he found. Kane"s trial is scheduled to start on June 10.

Posting private images online has resulted in an Austin man being sentenced. Jacob Louis Cano pleaded guilty to two counts of nonconsensual dissemination of private sexual images. A third count has been dropped as part of the plea deal. Cano reportedly posted explicit images of an ex-girlfriend to social media and included the victim"s name and a caption saying �if you follow me I"ll make it worth it." Cano will now be on two years of supervised probation and fined a total of $500.

A Ramsey County man will spend several decades behind bars after being convicted of a murder in 2023. Detwan Allen has been sentenced to 30 years for the murder of Alex Becker in St Paul. Becker was shot and killed on the 500 block of Lawson Avenue West, just feet away from his home. Allen and two others, Shaun Lamar Travis and Arteze Owen Kinerd, were arrested. Travis was acquitted in December of 2023 and Kinerd pleaded guilty in February. Kinerd"s sentencing is scheduled for June 3.

Power 96 News Brief 4-25

04/25/2024

The Albert Lea Fire Rescue is working on launching a new program that aims to reduce secondary 911 calls and to connect residents with resources to help them avoid regular trips to the emergency room. As part of the program after someone calls 911 and is taken to the hospital, firefighters, who are also trained EMTs, will follow up with the resident and ask if they would like a consultation to help them figure out resources to help them in their daily living to prevent future repeat visits to the emergency room.

The City of Albert Lea will be holding a clean up event to help clean up lakes around Albert Lea. The event will take place on Saturday April 27th starting at 8am at Frank Hall Park. The City will provide products for cleaning including garbage bags, gloves and dumpsters to dispose of the trash collected during clean up. The City will also allow for city residents to dispose of one load of garbage at a special rate at the Albert Lea transfer station on Saturday the 27th. Items can be disposed of from 9 am to noon

Minnesota Governor Tim Walz will be in Austin today as part of the groundbreaking of the I-90 construction project.Walz will be joined by Austin Mayor Steve King, Minnesota Department of Transportation Commissioner Nancy Daubenberger, along with other local leaders.

The $50 million construction project will look to replace and repair bridges along Interstate 90, & is being funded by the recently passed Infrastructure Investment & Jobs Act.

A Rochester man has entered a guilty plea after allegations that he whipped a young woman with a belt. William Ramon Frederick Hawkins pleaded guilty to first-degree burglary. In exchange, a count of fifth-degree assault was dismissed. Hawkins and three others allegedly broke into a home, went downstairs and woke up a sleeping girl. Hawkins then left the room and the three juveniles with him repeatedly whipped the girl with a belt. Hawkins has been sentenced to five years of supervised probation and must perform 100 hours of community service.

A Rochester teen has been arrested for an alleged burglary Wednesday night. The suspect Jamine Robinson Jr reportedly broke into a home in the 3900 block of Superior Drive NW at around 12:30 Thursday morning and the owner of the home heard a noise and noticed the window had been opened. The victim told police she saw a man taking money from her purse. The victim said she yelled for help and the burglar ran away. Robinson Jr faces one charge of first-degree burglary.

Coordinators of the Age-Friendly Freeborn County initiative are asking seniors throughout the county to fill out a survey to identify gaps in services for seniors in the community. Freeborn County was designated as an Age-Friendly Community by AARP last year, and as part of that designation, the local committee was tasked with conducting a countywide assessment to seniors 55 and older to figure out areas that can be improved. The survey is being paid for through grant funding through Age Friendly Minnesota.

Rochester police say two drivers were injured in a crash on West Circle Dr. and 41st St. NW.The call came in to dispatch at 12:50 p.m. with a report of an injury accident. The initial investigation by police indicates a vehicle traveling north on West Circle Dr. making a left turn and a vehicle traveling south crashed. The southbound vehicle then hit a pole.Both drivers were transported by Mayo Clinic Ambulance Service for treatment. One driver suffered life-threatening injuries, the other had non-life-threatening injuries. No other passengers were in the vehicles.

St Peter officials are investigating the death of an elderly woman and how it relates to a house fire. St. Peter Police says the fire happened Tuesday morning on Pratt Circle and investigation is underway with the State Fire Marshal's Office, but at this time, the fire appears to be accidental. During their investigation the St. Peter Police Department and the Nicollet County Sheriff"s Office found an elderly woman inside and removed her but she had died. Officials say the death doesn't seem suspicious and the body is currently being examined.

Power 96 News Brief 4-24

04/24/2024

The Albert Lea Police Department and Freeborn County Sheriff"s Office encourage residents to bring their unwanted medications to a collection program Saturday, April 27, from 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. in the parking lot of Wal-Mart, 1550 Blake Ave.The disposal is free of charge and confidential. Any medication may be dropped off, but no needles. The law enforcement officers will take all medications collected to an incinerator for final disposal. At the last Albert Lea take back event in October 2023, officers collected 30 pounds of medication that was incinerated in a safe and environmentally friendly way.

Rochester Fire Crews responded to a fire at an apartment complex Tuesday night. Crews were called to the Innsbruck Apartments on 50th Street NW, firefighters arrived at a significant amount of fire between two buildings. The fire caused what officials call moderate to severe smoke and fire damage, and they say that the fire was started in a trash can and there is no current estimation for the total cost of damages. One person was taken to the hospital for smoke inhalation but nobody was hurt from the fire.

Six Mankato residents have officially been charged with drug related crimes. The charges come after police seized thousands of counterfeit pills containing fentanyl in Mankato over the weekend. Authorities received a tip the pills were brought in from Michigan and say the pills were then sold out of an apartment rented by Wynter Harrison, one of the suspects. Agents entered the apartment and found other suspects flushing the pills. All six residents who were arrested are charged with felony first-degree possession and sale of drugs.

A Rush City man has pleaded guilty in a Olmsted County Court over allegations he was involved in prostitution. Larry Konah pleaded guilty to receiving profits from prostitution. Other charges are likely to be dropped from the case. Police say Konah forced a woman to engage in sexual encounters for money from December 2022 to January 2023 after saying they could model for his brand. Konah is serving a prison sentence for being convicted in Ramsey County of receiving profits from prostitution. He is not expected to be released until March 2025.

A Waseca man was injured in a crash Tuesday after his vehicle rolled over. A state patrol crash report says Derek Donald Vonbank Waseca, was driving a transit van northbound on Highway 15 and a car driven by Everett Wayne Hanning of Granada, was exiting westbound I-90 when the vehicles collided at Fairmont. The van rolled following the collision. Vonbank was transported to an emergency room in Fairmont.Hanning and his passenger, Lela Emily Hanning were not injured.

A Minnesota State Senator has officially been charged after she broke into a Detroit Lakes home. Nicole Mitchell, DFL-Woodbury was charged with first-degree burglary after entering a home to retrieve items that belonged to her late father but was caught after the owner of the home called police at around 4:45 Monday night. Mitchell has denied the allegations against her saying she was checking on a relative with Alzheimers not trying to get items back.

A St Peter man and Korean war vet received a welcomed surprise when he was told he will be awarded a purple heart. The U.S. Army notified Earl Meyer, of St. Peter that it has reversed itself and granted him a Purple Heart, which honors service members wounded or killed in combat. Meyer currently has shrapnel in his leg and has been living with it since serving in Korea over 70 years ago. The initial application was denied after his documentation was insufficient. Senator Amy Klobuchar"s office helped him obtain additional documents and help Meyer receive the award.

Power 96 News Brief 4-23

04/23/2024

The Albert Lea City Council on Monday approved the first contract with a Coon-Rapids based company for design work at City Arena included under the referendum that passed earlier this month. The contract, with Apex Facility Solutions, covers frost testing below the Colstrup Rink, removing frost, replacing the Colstrup Rink floor and replacing the refrigeration system for both the Colstrup and Nystrom rinks. Cathy Malakowsky, director of community engagement and enrichment for the city, said the cost for the first design contract is $362,000 and was already included in the $9.8 million that was approved by voters.

A multi-vehicle crash in Austin closed part of I-90 Monday afternoon. The crash occurred at around 2:00 when a Semite truck, a van, a pickup truck, and an SUV were all eastbound on I-90 and crashed into each other near mile marker 183. The driver of the Semite truck was not hurt from the crash. The other three drivers all suffered what are described as non-life threatening injuries and were taken to Mayo Clinic Health System in Austin for treatment. I-90 was reopened after crews cleared the scene.

A Rochester teen has pleaded guilty to assault charges from gunfire near a bowling alley. Raul Rios pleaded guilty to second-degree assault with a dangerous weapon for the incident on August 31, 2023, in the 2800 block of Northern Valley Drive near Bowlocity. Rios and another teen allegedly fired shots at multiple people which police say was the result of a fight at a local high school earlier in the day. Rios has been sentenced to five years of supervised probation and 100 hours of community work service.

A trial date has been set for an Austin man who is accused of sexually abusing two children between 2018 and 2022. Miguel Angel Tovar Calderon is charged with 13 counts of first-degree criminal sexual conduct and two counts of second-degree criminal sexual conduct. Mower County Human Services say one victim reported the abuse in early 2022 and the second victim reported the abuse several months later. Calderon is scheduled to stand trial starting October 28.

The Albert Lea City Council on Monday approved a grant application through the Minnesota Housing Agency in support of a project that would build a 62-unit workforce housing project in the 300 block of downtown Albert Lea. Rebound Partners, a Northfield based company is in a purchase agreement with the city for the land in-between the Wedge-Jones and Broadway Theater buildings, at 310, 314, 324 and 332 S. Broadway. Two of the properties are open lots left behind from the demolition of buildings that were in major disrepair, and the other two still have buildings standing.

A Blooming Prairie man is facing federal charges from a U.S. Attorney after allegations he sexually exploited children while outside of the United States. Steven John Sokel is accused of coercing three underaged girls outside of the US to produce sexual photos and videos. Sokel is also accused of possessing child pornography. He was officially charged with two counts of sexual exploitation of children and one count of possessing child pornography. He will remain in custody until a formal detention hearing is held.

An Albert Lea man is facing gun charges after authorities responded to a report of shots fired Sunday evening. Russell Edward Sorum was charged with one count of second-degree assault with a dangerous weapon, dangerous weapon-one count of intentionally pointing a gun and one count of fifth-degree assault tied to the incident where Sorum and his son met a man for a drug deal and it lead to an altercation with shots being fired and Sorum being pepper sprayed. A pre-trial has been slated for August. 28.

A Minnesota State Senator was arrested Monday after she tried to enter a home. Nicole Mitchell was charged with first-degree burglary after the incident in the 700 block of Granger Road in Detroit Lakes at around 4:45 a.m. when a woman called the police about a woman entering her home. Mitchell, who was found in a basement, admitted to police she was trying to retrieve some items belonging to her late father after her step mom refused to give her the items and did not speak to her.

Power 96 News Brief 4-22

04/22/2024

The Albert Lea City Council will vote Monday on the first design contract for projects at the City Arena. The city would hire Apex Facility Solutions of Coon Rapids for designing the new refrigeration system at the City Arena, new floor for the Colstrup Rink and removing the frost below the Colstrup Rink. A second contract, expected in May, would cover design of several other projects.The design phase would likely take most of the summer, and then the council would start voting on individual construction projects this fall.

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources has started work on extending the Blazing Star State Trail from Myre-Big Island State Park to the Hayward section. The project includes paving a gravel portion within the state park and repaving other trail segments. The expanded trail is scheduled to open to the public in fall 2025. The existing trail is expected to remain open during bridge construction.

The Albert Lea City Council will meet and will vote on accepting bids for several street projects. Albert Lea Fire Rescue will give a presentation on a program to bridge the gaps between residents and resources after 911 calls. Residents meeting the program criteria would receive follow-up visits to make sure they have access to the care they need. The council will vote on expanding the Main Corridors Renewal Grant program to commercially zoned properties along the Front Street corridor. The program provides grants up to $30,000 for certain repairs and improvements.

A motorcyclist was injured after a crash at 3:32 p.m. Sunday in a parking lot at 2306 E. Main St. Police stated Allan Martin, 63, of Albert Lea, was taken to the hospital for serious but not life-threatening injuries. Martin was reportedly trying a stunt on the bike when he went down and sustained injuries to his head and shoulder.

A New Ulm man will stand trial in Freeborn County for sex crimes. Roger Yarger faces charges that include engaging in electronic communication describing sexual conduct with a child and distributing via electronic communication material that describes sexual conduct to a child. Police discovered Yarger after an undercover officer found a website known for arranging meetings between men and young children and was messaged by Yarger. Yarger invited the boy to meet and send the child photo of himself. Yarger will be in court in mid July.

The City of Albert Lea will hold a spring cleaning event on Saturday, April 27, from 9 a.m.- noon, at the Transfer Station, located at 2506 West Richway Drive. Residents with proof of city residency may deposit one load of the following at a special rate.Brush, yard waste, household garbage, and demolition debris: No charge, Appliances, sofas, mattresses: $10 each, Furniture pieces: $5 each, and Passenger car tires: $3 each

An Austin man responsible for injuring several people pleaded guilty in court. Jeffery Lorenzo pleaded guilty to a charge of criminal vehicular operation-great bodily harm after the accident at the intersection 2nd avenue Southwest and 4th street Southwest in Austin. Additional charges will likely be dropped as part of the plea deal. Lorenzo was driving a 2008 Chevy Trailblazer when he failed to stop and collided with a Pontiac Vibe which was pushed off the road. Two people in the Vibe were taken to the hospital for treatment. Lorenzo's sentencing is scheduled for June.

Six Mankato residents have been arrested on drug related crimes. The Mankato Department of Public Saftey and agents of the Minnesota River Valey Drug Task Force executed a search warrant in Mankato on Saturday and discovered close to 6000 counterfeit oxycodone pills during the search which tested positive for fentanyl. The Drug Task Force requested charges of first-degree sales and first-degree possession of a controlled substance.

Power 96 News Brief 4-19

04/19/2024

A bridge demolition is scheduled to start Friday in Austin.The Minnesota Department of Transportation says drivers on Interstate 90 near the Oakland Avenue bridge will have to use the exit and entrance ramps from 6:30 p.m. Friday through 5 am on Monday. Drivers on Highway 105/Oakland Avenue near I-90 in Austin will encounter a detour. MnDOT says the Oakland Avenue bridge replacement is part of the three-year project that is replacing or repairing bridges at six sites along the I-90 corridor

A Rochester man who was previously arrested for fraud is now a suspect in a jewelry store break-in. Garrett Dorsher is facing charges of second-degree burglary and credit card fraud and is currently being held at the Olmsted County Adult Detention Center. He was already in custody when he was eventually named a suspect for a break in at Lasker Jewelry early Sunday morning. The break in happened at around 1:45 Sunday morning and Dorsher was caught at around 3:00 that same day.

A Rochester man has been arrested for vandalism after damaging part of a parking ramp and sky way. Jerrell Guider has been booked into the Olmsted County Adult Detention Center on charges of first-degree damage of property. According to police Guider carved Xs into the skyway pillars near 117 3rd Street SW.Investigators say they also believe Guider was responsible for vandalism in a downtown parking ramp.

The Minnesota Senate approved an elections policy bill Thursday that would guarantee voters the right to sue if they face vote suppression or vote dilution the bill was passed on a 35-32 vote. Those who oppose the bill say the ruling hasn"t yet had time to be tested. The bill comes after the 8th Circuit of the U.S. Court of Appeals last year ruled against a provision of the law that allowed voters to challenge voting policies or maps that were racially discriminatory. The bill will now head back to the state house and then to the desk of Governor Walz.

A Mower County man is taking a plea deal on tax fraud charges. Craig Jacobson pleaded guilty to two counts of failure to collect and remit taxes. He also faces 23 additional charges but those could be dropped as part of the plea deal. Jacobson did not file withholding returns or pay withholding taxes for his business several times from 2015-2018 and altered submitted federal tax returns when submitting his state returns. Jacobson will be sentenced in early August.

A North Iowa man is facing domestic assault charges after assaulting and threatening his girlfriend. Benjamin Mehmen faces four counts of intimidation with a dangerous weapon and one count of domestic abuse assault. Mehmen reportedly strangled, choked, and stepped on her throat, repeatedly causing the victim to nearly lose consciousness in September 2023. He would also threaten her with a taser on multiple occasions. Mehmen is being held without bail.

The Minnesota BCA is asking for help to find a man accused of creating Child Pornograpy. William Guy Amick III faces 13 felony counts including using minors in sexual performance, soliciting a child to engage in sexual conduct, and possession of pornographic work involving a minor. Amick is accused of posing as a woman online to create child pornography using other men"s children ages seven and younger. Investigators allegedly located more than 200 videos in that vein on Amick III"s devices. He also faces another case in Pennsylvania.

The Minnesota State House approved a bill Thursday that would help speed up the process for cannabis dispensaries by allowing people to be preapproved for an operating license. On a 69-62 vote, lawmakers voted to allow the office to start issuing license pre-approvals as early as this summer. The proposal would also put the Office of Cannabis Management in charge of enforcement for hemp-derived edible products and medical marijuana.

Power 96 News Brief 4-18

04/18/2024

One person was sent to the hospital after being injured Wednesday afternoon after a crash at the intersection of East Main Street and Happy Trails Lane. Jon Anderson was taken by ambulance to Mayo Clinic Health System in Albert Lea for injuries deemed non-life threatening. Anderson was driving a 2017 Chevy Equinox and was headed north out of the Trail"s Travel Center parking lot to turn left onto westbound Main Street, when he pulled out into the path of a 2007 white Dodge Charger, driven by Corey Foland, 24, who was eastbound. Foland was not injured.

The Freeborn County Sheriff"s Office is utilizing two state grants in its efforts to fill open law enforcement positions in the department. The Sheriff"s Office was awarded two $50,000 Minnesota Intensive Comprehensive Peace Officer Education and Training Program grants through the Minnesota Department of Public Safety"s Office of Justice Programs that it plans to use to recruit and train two people looking to transition their careers into law enforcement. The grants would go toward tuition, housing, mileage, wages and fringe benefits of the selected candidates who meet specified requirements.

Semcac in Austin is raising funds to help build a new building in town. The new facility would house new classrooms for its early childhood and preschool head start program, a new central kitchen for its food and nutrition services, and offices for its outreach and emergency services programs, like homelessness prevention. The organization hopes to raise around $50,000 and the first $5,000 raised by the organization will be matched by an anonymous donor.

Union Pacific released a statement Thursday morning detailing a train derailment in Mason City Iowa Wednesday night. The statement reads:At approximately 10:15 p.m. Wednesday evening, approximately seven cars on a Union Pacific train derailed in our Mason City, Iowa yard. There were no injuries, but some soybean meal and potash was released as a result of the incident, which is under investigation. An investigation into the derailment is currently ongoing.

An Austin man faces several charges after allegedly attacking a Hispanic man, then fighting police in a racially charged incident Monday. John Bradley Shea faces the charges after a 9-1-1 call to police ended abruptly. The caller said Shea pulled a gun on him and threatened to shoot. Police then went to Shea"s home and arrested him after a standoff ended in an altercation. Shea was taken to St Marys after the altercation and is now being held in Mower County Jail on $15,000 bail with conditions or $50,000 without. He will next be in court at the end of April.   

An Austin man is being held in Mower County jail after he allegedly assaulted a woman in march. Christopher John Marcks faces eight total charges after he assaulted a woman hitting her multiple times before pulling a knife and threatening her. Marcks accused the woman of cheating on him. Marcks has previous convictions for terroristic threats on Dec. 14, 2017 and violating a domestic abuse no contact order from Oct. 13, 2017. He will be in court again in late April and is being held on $100,000 bail with no conditions or $25,000 with conditions.

The trial of a Rochester man charged in a November 2019 shooting begins Thursday. Abdusalam Hussein faces two counts of second-degree assault with a dangerous weapon and one count of possessing a firearm.He is accused of firing several shots at a man who was asleep in his southeast Rochester home. Hussein allegedly walked into the man"s unlocked residence, started kicking him and then shot him five times.

Veterans from around Minnesota marched to the State Capitol on Wednesday for the annual Veterans Day on the Hill. The event is to show support for veterans issues being considered by the Minnesota Legislature, including ending veteran homelessness. Key issues at the event include supporting a veteran-specific omnibus bill, along with increasing property tax relief for disabled veterans and surviving spouses of deceased veterans

Power 96 News Brief 4-17

04/17/2024

A Twin lake man appeared in Freeborn County Court Tuesday on assault charges. Camren Michael Cunningham was charged with one count of third-degree assault and two counts of second-degree assault with a dangerous weapon after he allegedly picked a woman up and slammed her down on the ground Saturday night, after which witnesses said the woman had a seizure. Another witness said Cunningham went to his car to grab a gun but police were unable to locate the weapon. Cunninghams" bail was set at $300,000 without conditions and $150,000 with conditions. He is next slated to appear in court April 25.

An Iowa man was taken to the hospital after his Semite truck was blown over on Tuesday in Mower County. Todd J. Wolter was driving a Semite tractor trailer on Highway 56 when a large wind gust blew the Semite over on its driver's side. The accident occurred around 2:48 p.m. near the intersection of 205th Street. Wolter suffered what are described as non-life threatening injuries and was taken to Mayo Clinic Health System in Austin for treatment.

A Wykoff man will now be sentenced for his role in a Rochester shooting. Cory John Schreiber has pleaded guilty to second-degree assault after he allegedly shot a man at the request of another man during a drug sale in may of 2023 and then was instructed to hide the fire arm. During a search of the home used for the drug sale police found evidence of drug use and possible sales. Schreiber is scheduled to be sentenced in late June.

A Byron man facing charges for slashing a woman with a knife has been sentenced after taking a plea deal. Lee Stellmaker has pleaded guilty to a misdemeanor count of domestic assault. A charge of second-degree assault with a dangerous weapon has been dismissed. Stellmaker was arrested in August after a domestic dispute in the 100 block of 8th Street NE in Byron. Stellmaker reportedly attacked a woman with a knife resulting in injury. He was reportedly found holding the knife and had a blood alcohol level above the legal limit. Stellmaker will serve one year of supervised probation.   

Power 96 News Brief 4-16

04/16/2024

The Albert Lea School board met Monday night and voted to cut seven positions across the school district at multiple Albert Lea Schools. The decision comes as the district adjusts for declining enrollment. The positions cut as a result of the vote include three full-time elementary teachers, two full-time secondary classroom teachers and a special services coordinator at both the elementary and secondary levels.

The City of Albert Lea is inviting residents to learn more about a study about how to best improve safety, address aging bridges and provide a smoother, more effective travel experience for all who use the Interstate 35/Interstate 90 interchange. The Mn Department of Transportation is planning to replace the two I-90 bridges over I-35 in the year 2030, and perhaps do more based on public input. The meeting is scheduled for Tonight at City hall from 4:30-6:30

The Freeborn County Board of Commissioners will meet Tuesday. On the Agenda for the board they will hear from Departments throughout Freeborn County such as the Highway as well as the County Administrator and Auditor-Treasurer. The board will also consider resolutions approving a liquor license for Freeborn Lake Golf Course and Hickory Hill Campground. The board will also consider a resolution certifying the acquisition of property by the US Fish and Wildlife service.    

An Austin man will face charges after selling drugs at his workplace. Eric Borg appeared in Mower County Court Monday on one charge of 3rd-degree narcotic sale and two charges of 5th-degree drug possession after police investigated a business at 1310 4th Street SE, after reports that Borg was selling cocaine. Police found several bags of drugs, a bag of drug paraphernalia, and multiple rounds of ammunition. Borg eventually admitted to the crime. He was released on conditions. He will next be in court later this month.

Power 96 News Brief 4-15

04/15/2024

The City of Albert Lea is inviting residents to learn more about a study that is looking at how to best improve safety, address aging bridges and provide a smoother, more effective travel experience for all who use the Interstate 35/Interstate 90 interchange, according to the Minnesota Department of Transportation. MnDOT is planning to replace the two I-90 bridges over I-35 in 2030, and perhaps do more based on public input. The meeting is scheduled for Tuesday at City hall from 4:30-6:30

The Albert Lea School board will meet Monday. The board will be hearing from several people including the SuperIntendent. The Board will consider several resolutions including Discontinuing and Reducing Educational Programs and Positions, recycling many pieces of technology that no longer fit the school system"s network. In addition the board will also discuss various financial matters and several new appointments, resignations and terminations. The board will meet Monday night at 5:00.   

A police chase near Dodge County has left one man dead. Dodge County Sheriff"s Office say the chase started around 7:30 p.m. when a West Concord police officer tried to pull a person over. The driver rammed his vehicle into the officer"s squad and took off. The chase lasted about 30 miles to Cannon Falls, where authorities say the driver took his own life in Mayo Clinic Health System Cannon Falls Hospital which prompted a lockdown. The officer whose car was hit was treated for minor injuries then released.

The Rochester Police Department is investigating a Jewelry store robbery from over the weekend. Police responded to an alarm at Lasker Jewelers early Sunday morning. Arriving on the scene police found the door broken into and the jewelry case shattered with several pieces on the floor of the store. Surveillance video from the store showed a man in a black jacket and white mask running from the scene. If you know anything you are asked to please call Rochester police.

Power 96 News Brief 4-12

04/12/2024

A woman appeared in Freeborn County Court Thursday on charges after she allegedly threatened another woman with a knife at an Albert Lea Motel. Robyn Jessica Moore was charged with one count of second-degree assault with a dangerous weapon and one count of fifth-degree assault, causing fear of bodily harm or death. The victim says Moore arrived at the room door for an unknown reason and threatened her with a tree carving knife. Moore"s bail at $30,000 unconditional bail or $15,000 with conditions. She is next slated to appear in court April 25.

An Austin man will serve time behind bars after pleading guilty to drug related crimes. Matthew Lewis sold around 20 grams of meth to a confidential reliable informant on two occasions in November 2022. Lewis was arrested at a traffic stop in August of last year. Lewis pleaded guilty to second-degree sale of drugs and has now been sentenced to spend seven years and 11 months behind bars, with credit for 185 days already served.

The Southern Minnesota Regional Medical Examiner"s Office has released the identity of a man who was found deceased in an Olmsted County Park on Wednesday. The body was of Len Reynolds who police have been searching for since last march. was found by a person walking their dog in a wooded area near the Gordon W. Yeager State Wildlife Management Area. Law enforcement have not shared a cause of death, and do not believe foul play is involved.

A Rochester Judge has thrown out a multi-million dollar lawsuit over a property tax levy for Rochester Public Schools in 2023. Casey McGregor sued the school district and several school officials claiming the referendum did not specify the exact project the property tax increase would fund. The judge tossed the case because McGregor failed to allege facts that would allow the court to grant the relief demanded. The majority of the complaint consists of conclusions of law based on facts not contained within the complaint

Power 96 News Brief 4-11

04/11/2024

An Albert Lea man has been sentenced after pleading guilty to sexting an underage girl. Stephen Brian Besco pleaded guilty to engaging in electronic communication relating to or describing sexual conduct with a child. Charges of child solicitation were dropped and Besco will be on probation for five years and serve no further jail time. He must also register as a predatory offender, attend sex offender treatment, and have no contact with people under the age of 18, unless approved by officials.

The Albert Lea Fourth of July Firework display will be moving locations. The move is made to make sure the city complies with state codes. The display which had been held at the city beach will now move to a new location this year on city property west of the Blazing Star Landing between Fountain and Albert Lea lakes. Holding the event at the new location will allow viewers to use both lakes to watch the event by boat or sit on sidewalks or in surrounding parks.

Olmsted County officials are investigating after a dead body was found Wednesday. An individual was walking their dog near the Gordon W. Yeager Wildlife Management Area and Silver Creek Road NE when they noticed what looked to be a body on the ground. Authorities tried to identify the body but were unable to due to what exposure to the elements. The Olmsted County Sheriff's office released a statement saying it doesn't believe there is a threat to the public.

A Rochester man will spend time behind bars after being convicted of murder. Idris Haji-Mohamed was found guilty of second-degree murder in the death of Jeremy Ellis who was found in a running car in a parking lot behind 601 Chicago Avenue South near U.S. Bank Stadium with gunshot wounds. He was later pronounced dead. Law enforcement says Haji-Mohamed shot Ellis several times during a drug deal on December 30, 2022.Haji-Mohamed is now scheduled to be sentenced for that killing on May 3.

Power 96 News Brief 4-10

04/10/2024

Albert Lea voters made their voices heard on Tuesday when they passed the referendum to spend close to ten million dollars on improvements to improve local rec facilities. The final vote was by a 3:1 margin with 1849 people voting in support of the referendum and 600 voting against. The money will be used to upgrade several parts of City Arena, make the Marian Ross Center more accessible, at the pool they will replace water-heating, lighting and electrical systems and bathrooms will be added to the splash pad.

A Rochester teen now faces charges after sexually assaulting a child. Austin Anthony Russ was charged with 1st-degree criminal sexual conduct and 2nd-degree criminal sexual conduct�contact with a child. The charges come after a woman spoke with police after the victim told a man what had occurred in detail. Russ was arrested and initially denied the allegations but eventually confessed to the crime. Russ" next court hearing is scheduled for April 23. He is currently held at the Olmsted County ADC on $100,000 bail.

The Minnesota House has advanced a bill to help grant voters the ability to sue over potentially discriminatory practices. The bill is a response to a court decision that upended a similar federal law. The 8th Circuit U.S. Court of Appeals ruled last year that the federal Voting Rights Act doesn"t give individuals the right to sue since they"re not explicitly named in law. Minnesota is part of the eighth circuit so the ruling applies to the state. A companion bill is also making its way through the state senate. The house also passed another election bill that covers many more election topics.

This week is Severe Weather Awareness Week in Minnesota with the National Weather Service presenting information daily about various topics on severe weather safety. Thursday, April 11, the NWS will cover tornadoes with the day featuring tornado drills and educating people on tornado safety. As a result From 1:45 until 6:45 on Thursday Sirens will sound across the state at times determined by the counties and cities. The sirens will last for about three minutes.

Power 96 News Brief 4-9

04/09/2024

Albert Lea voters head to the polls today and will decide if the city can use $9.8 Million for several recreational facilities. The majority of the money would go towards repairs and upgrades to City Arena. The rest of the money will go to the Marian Ross Center, the Splash Pad and Aquatic Center. The city would pay off the bonds over 20 years. The cost to individual taxpayers would depend on their property values. For a home valued at $100,000, the additional cost would be $47.50 per year or less than $4 per month. Polls are open until 8:00 Tuesday night.

During their meeting Monday the Albert Lea City Council voted on and agreed to continue with the purchase and installation of equipment for a new inclusive playground. The vote approved the $318,981 cost of playground equipment from Landscape Structures and $426,452 for the surface construction and equipment assembly from Flagship Recreation. The playground will be built at Edgewater Park and Installation of the equipment will likely start in August or September of this year.

The Albert Lea City Council met on Monday night. During the meeting the City decided to relinquish a state grant that would have gone towards building new apartments at the Blazing Star Landing. The decision was made after the developers of the apartments cited unstable market conditions and put the project on hold. The developer does still plan to build close to 100 apartments on the Blazing Start Landing once the conditions improve.

Trying to avoid a deer has resulted in more than two thousand Rochester residents losing power. The crash in the 2200 block of 18 Avenue SW around 7:45 p.m. when a driver swerved to avoid a deer went into a ditch and struck a utility pole resulting in power loss. Crews were able to restore power Monday night. The Rochester Fire Department extracted the driver from her vehicle. Police say the juvenile had been wearing her seatbelt and was not hurt.

Power 96 News Brief 4-8

04/08/2024

The Albert Lea City Council will meet Monday. On the agenda for the meeting the City will take a vote on two items including the Inclusive Playground and the Blazing Star Landing. The vote on the playground will be on two contracts: The first contract is a $319,000 contract with Landscape Structures for equipment as well as $426,452 contract with Flagship Recreation for installing a rubberized surface, which makes it safer for playing, and assembling the equipment.

The Albert Lea City Council will meet Monday. On the agenda for the meeting the City will take a vote on two items including the Inclusive Playground and the Blazing Star Landing. Current plans for the Blazing Star Landing continue to evolve, with the Albert Lea City Council scheduled to vote Monday on continuing cleanup for one site and putting cleanup on hold for another. The meeting is scheduled for Monday night at 7 and is open to the public.

Albert Lea voters will decide Tuesday whether to approve the city borrowing up to $9.8 million to make improvements to the City Arena, Marion Ross Theater, Aquatic Center and Splash Pad. The city would pay off the bonds over 20 years. The cost to individual taxpayers would depend on their property values. For a home valued at $100,000, the additional cost would be $47.50 per year or less than $1 per week. Polls are open from 8:00 until 7:00.

The Freeborn County Board of Commissioners will meet for a workshop on Tuesday where they will speak and hear from several members who represent the county. On the agenda the board will hear from the new Auditor-Treasurer Kelly Hendrickson, County Administrator Ryan Rasmusson, as well as the department of Probation and Pretrial Services and the department of Human Services. The meeting is scheduled to take place at 8:30 on Tuesday.

Power 96 News Brief 4-5

04/05/2024

The Albert Lea Dance team has been selected to serve as the grand Marshall for the Albert Lea Third of July Parade. The theme for the parade will be �Dancing in the Streets: Celebrating Community Successes. The team was selected for many reasons including to recognize the team for making it to the state competition for the first time in the program's history. The team also represents the spirit and talent of local youth and has had exceptional dedication and hard work in their training and performances, serving as role models for other youth in the community.

A Rochester man will serve time behind bars after he fired shots at police as they were trying to arrest him. David Collier was convicted of first-degree assault, use of deadly force against a peace officer after police responded to a call at a hotel on Wood Lake Drive SE after a report of people with guns on the property. Police reportedly tried to restrain Collier who then pulled out a gun and fired. Additional charges were dropped after a plea deal. He will serve 15 years in prison.

A Lyle man has been sentenced after pleading guilty to taking part in the stabbing of two Mower County teenagers. Carsen Dolan pleaded guilty to aiding and abetting second-degree assault. Dolan and another teen were arrested in 2022 for stabbing two 16 year olds in Mower County. Police say there was an ongoing feud between Dolan the other teen and the 16 year olds. The two stabbed victims were sent to the hospital and have been released.

Power 96 News Brief 4-4

04/04/2024

A Freeborn County man has been sentenced after pleading guilty to child sex crimes. Jonathan David Wigham pleaded guilty to two charges of 3rd-degree criminal sexual conduct with a 14-15-year-old girl. The Victim in the case says Wigham repeatedly sexually abused her. Wigham told police he was in love with her but denied the abuse. As part of the plea deal Wigham must register as sex offender and serve 180 days in prison among other conditions. He will be sentenced in August.

The Austin man accused of killing his two year old daughter appeared in Mower County court for sentencing on Wednesday. Dariaz Higgins pleaded guilty to second degree murder of his daughter Noelani Robinson in 2019. Higgins admitted killing Noelani with blunt force trauma to the head, causing brain hemorrhages and dumping her body in a ditch in blooming prairie. Higgins was sentenced to 17 years in prison in addition to the life sentence for killing Noelanis mother in Wisconsin.

Rochester Fire Crews responded to a fire at the Edenbrook of Rochester Nursing home early Thursday Morning. Crews arrived at the home at around 6 am and found the contents of a room on fire. crews reported smoke in the hallways while residents were evacuated.

Crews located and put out a fire then ventilated the building before residents returned. The RFD captain said a few occupants were treated for smoke inhalation, but were not transported to a hospital. Damage was minimal and limited to one room. No injuries were sustained.

Author and historian Jeff Sauve will present a historical murder mystery on Thursday, April 11, at noon in the City Council Chambers on the top floor of City Hall, 221 E. Clark St.Sauve will share the true story of the murder of a young woman in nineteenth-century Duluth at Minnesota Point. Attendees will discover the peculiar circumstances of this crime and how Sauve brought the story to light.The program is part of the Albert Lea Public Library"s Bring Your Own Lunch and Learn series. There is no fee or registration required.

Power 96 News Brief 4-3

04/03/2024

Freeborn County has a new Auditor-Treasurer. During their meeting Tuesday the Board of Commissioners appointed Kelly Hendrickson to serve as the permanent Auditor-Treasurer after she served in the interim role since November. Hendrickson previously worked as the recorder and was filling in as interim Auditor-Treasurer after former Auditor-Treasurer Pat Martinson retired. She will continue to serve as the recorder in the interim until someone fills the role.

An Austin man already serving a life sentence for murder will be in court today to plead guilty to murdering his two year old daughter. Dariaz Higgins will plead guilty to the murder of Noelani Robinson in 2019 and left her body in a ditch. Higgins was already given a life sentence for shooting the mother of his daughter, Sierra Robinson, from the Milwaukee District Court. Higgins was extradited back to Minnesota to plead guilty to the murder of Noelani in Austin.

The Big Island Rendezvous now has a date. The event will take place at the Wedgewood Cove on Friday April 19th from 5 to 10pm. The event supports the 2024 Rendezvous Education Days, which historically offers a dynamic learning experience to over 2,700 students from various schools across southern Minnesota and northern Iowa. The evening will start at 5:00 and will also include auctions and dinner. Tickets start at $25 per person. You can RSVP at

the Albert Lea Convention & Visitors Bureau and Chamber of Commerce office.

A crash early Wednesday morning in Goodhue County has resulted in an injury to an Olmsted County woman. The crash occurred at around 7:40 Wednesday when Sally Jane Skjeie lost control near mile marker 167, went into the ditch, and rolled her vehicle. She sustained what are described as non-life threatening injuries and was transported to St. Mary's Hospital in Rochester for treatment. Police say that road conditions at the time of the crash were snowy and icy.

Power 96 News Brief 4-2

04/02/2024

Gun charges are sending an Albert Lea man to prison after taking a plea deal. Matthew John Peterson faces charges after selling more than 30 grams of meth to a Confidential informant twice in 2023 and illegally being in possession of a gun. The firearm was found in Peterson"s home when it was searched. Peterson has a felony conviction for threats of violence. Peterson pleaded guilty to one count of ineligible person in possession of a firearm in return for the drug charge being dismissed. He will serve five years behind bars.

The Albert Lea City Council will be hosting its annual retreat at the Albert Lea fire house on Thursday. During the retreat the Council will tour the fire house prior to the start of official business. On the work agenda for the retreat is a presentation on the Blazing Star Landing, budget related business from city members, The city will also receive updates on three projects around the city including zoning, economic development and a workforce housing grant application which is due to be submitted in April.      

During their meeting tonight the Freeborn County Board of commissioners will hear from several county departments including the County Administrator, Auditor-Treasurer, and the departments of Public Health, Human Services, and the Sheriff's office. The Board will also vote on a resolution to approve the sale of Tax forfeited parcels to the City of Albert Lea. The Board will also consider several resolutions to fill vacant positions on the board.

Mankato Public Safety is looking for three individuals who are responsible for vandalizing a business. The individuals vandalized the doors at the Intergovernmental Center located at 10 Civic Center Plaza at around 1:00 am on march 29th. The suspects were caught on surveillance cameras and authorities would like to question them about the criminal damage to property. The estimated cost of the damage is estimated to be around $2500.00

Power 96 News Brief 4-1

04/01/2024

The trial date for a Freeborn County man facing drug charges has been set. Juan Manuel Mendez was charged in February with first-degree drug possession after the South Central Drug Investigation Unit intercepted a package containing 1.365 pounds of cocaine in Mid February. The package was sent to Mendez"s address. After that delivery, law enforcement says it entered Mendez" home and found the unopened package hidden in a closet in Mendez" bedroom. Mendez will stand trial in early June.

The City of Albert Lea will receive close to $190,000. The money is part of more than $2 million in land redevelopment funding announced Monday by the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development. The money will be used for public infrastructure improvements on the 3.66-acre site in the Blazing Star Landing redevelopment district. The site will now be redeveloped into a 9,100-square-foot convenience store that includes an associated car wash and filling pumps.

The Freeborn County Board of Commissioners will meet Tuesday. During the meeting the Board will hear from several county departments including the County Administrator, Auditor-Treasurer, and the departments of Public Health, Human Services, and the Sheriff's office. The Board will also vote on a resolution to approve the sale of Tax forfeited parcels to the City of Albert Lea. The Board will also consider several resolutions to fill vacant positions on the board.

The Minnesota Supreme Court will hear arguments on Monday on a law that allows for convicted felons to vote. The court will hear oral arguments in a case challenging a relatively new state law that restored the right to vote to those convicted of a felony after they serve time behind bars. The law passed in early February 2023 after a previous Supreme Court ruling put the matter back in the Legislature"s hands.The Court will decide if the law will be struck down or if the law will remain in effect and allow an estimated 55,000 Minnesotans to vote.

Power 96 News Brief 3-29

03/29/2024

Albert Lea area schools saw a small drop in graduation rates in 2023. According to the data, 201 students, or 75.6%, of the district"s schools graduated in four years during 2023. That is down from 78.1% in 2022. At Albert Lea High School, the rate increased from 86.6% in 2022 to 88.3% in 2023. The last time the rate was at that level was in 2019, when the school graduation rate was 88.6%. Statewide, the 2023 graduation rate was 83.3%, down from 83.6% in 2022.

An Austin man has taken a plea deal in charges related to child sex crimes. Alexander Miller faced two counts of first-degree criminal sexual conduct after accusations that he sexually abused a child under the age of 14. According to Austin Police the abuse happened in March of 2023. Miller has now pleaded guilty to one count of second-degree criminal sexual conduct. Miller"s sentencing is scheduled to take place in early June.

A man already serving life in prison for murder appeared in front of a Mower County Court Thursday on charges of second degree murder of a two year old. Dariaz Higgins was transferred to Mower County Wednesday to appear on a charge of 2nd-degree murder�without intent, while committing a felony after allegedly killing his 2-year-old Noelani Robinson at the Rodeway Inn Motel in Austin. Higgins is serving life in prison for the murder of Sierra Robinson, the mother of Noelani. Higgins has pleaded not guilty to the charges and will appear in court again on April 3rd.

If you're looking for something to do this weekend with the children for Easter the City of Albert Lea is hosting an Easter egg hunt at City Arena on Saturday. The event will run from 9 to 11 for children 11 and younger. The event will be divided up into age groups. Ages four and younger will be from 9-9:30, ages five to seven will be from 9:40 to 10:10 and ages eight to 11 will be from 10:20 to 10:50. If you attend you are asked to please arrive no later than 15 minutes for your time and to bring a bag or basket to carry the eggs.

Power 96 News Brief 3-28

03/28/2024

The City of Albert Lea has changed the location of its Easter egg hunt scheduled for Saturday. The event will now take place at Albert Lea City Arena and is still scheduled from 9 to 11 am. The event will be split into age groups for those ages 11 and younger. The hunt for children ages four and younger will take place from 9-9:30, ages five to seven will be from 9:40 to 10:10 and ages 8-11 will be from 10:20 to 10:50. Attendees are asked to bring baskets or bags and arrive no more than 15 minutes before their time.   

The Albert Lea Police Department and Freeborn County Sheriff"s Office say they will join the effort being coordinated by the Minnesota Department of Public Safety Office of Traffic Safety. State data says distracted driving in Minnesota has been to blame for 730 serious injuries and 148 deaths since 2019. Almost 30,000 crashes were distracted driving-related from 2019-2023, contributing to one in 11 crashes in the state.

The Mower County Board of Commissioners passed a resolution requiring a county township to continue maintaining roads that have been at the heart of a back and forth between residents and the township. The development itself is located just east of Austin, branching off of 570th Avenue with 228th and 227th connecting up with 574th Avenue. There are 13 homes along 227th, but none along 228th with only one home off of 572nd Avenue

A Mower County driver is now in the hospital after a collision in Goodhue County Thursday morning. Barbara Ann Medina-Tiller Adams was driving east on County Road 9 while Mark Thomas McNamara was heading north on Highway 56. According to the State Patrol they crashed in the intersection just after 7:30 Thursday. Both drivers and a passenger in Medina-Tiller"s vehicle, suffered what are described as life-threatening injuries and were taken to area hospitals.

Power 96 News Brief 3-27

03/27/2024

An Albert Lea man already facing charges for murder is once again facing charges this time for criminal sexual conduct. Austin Navarro, who is facing charges related to the death of a two year old last July, was charged once again with one count of fifth-degree criminal sexual conduct-nonconsensual sexual contact after approaching another male inmate and grabbing him below the waist and making several comments. He will appear in court July 23, and is scheduled to appear on the murder charges April 30.

A Rochester man will now stand trial after pleading not guilty to charges related to child pornography. Ryan Thomas faces three counts of possession of pornographic work involving a minor under 14. Rochester police received multiple tips in July 2021 and February 2022 about possible child sex abuse videos being uploaded to a social media app. Police were able to trace the videos back to Thomas. Police searched his home and found more than 40 images and videos. The trial is set for early October.

Making threats and leading police on a chase has resulted in felony charges against a Rochester man. Abdulahi Abukar faces several charges including first-degree burglary and robbery, second-degree assault, fleeing a peace officer in a motor vehicle and DWI after police were called to the 900 block of 4th Street SE at around 1:25p.m. Tuesday after Abukar had forced his way into a residence and yelling threats before he left. Police went to a place in the 400 block of 10th Avenue SW and arrested him.

A Rochester man faces charges after being caught with a gun at around 2:00 Wednesday morning. Police responded to Kathy"s Pub after bar staff spotted a man with a gun in his waistband and followed the suspect Costin Tita before losing him during a chase where he allegedly dropped a BB gun. Police searched the area of the 700 block of 9th street SE before finding Tita hiding in a garage and eventually convinced him to exit the garage. The Rochester police chief is referring charges that include fleeing a peace officer, 2nd-degree DWI�refuses to test, and 2nd-degree burglary.   

Power 96 News Brief 3-26

03/26/2024

During their meeting Monday the Albert Lea City Council approved the purchase of three properties located at 821 Jefferson Ave., 917 S. Broadway Ave. and 122 S. Ermina Ave. The City says that they will repair the Jefferson address and the other two are likely to be demolished. The City also voted 4-2 to move forward with the preparation of plans for the city"s downtown alley reconstruction project this summer. The $275,000 project includes alleys between Elizabeth and Newton avenues, and from Clark to College street.

Albert Lea Recreation will be hosting an Easter Egg Hunt at Central Park, on Saturday from 9 to 11 a.m. for those ages 11 and under. The hunt will be divided into age groups. Ages 4 and younger will be from 9 - 9:30. Ages 5-7 will be at 9:40 -10:10 a.m. Ages 8-11 will be 10:20 - 10:50 a.m. Please bring baskets or bags for collecting eggs, and arrive no more than 15 minutes before your child"s age slot to avoid overcrowding. Eggs will be filled with sweet treats and prizes, including passes to the Albert Lea Aquatic Center. The Easter Bunny will make a special appearance as well.

Glenville-Emmons Schools are on spring break earlier than anticipated. The district decided to close schools this week due to leaks caused by the winter weather this past weekend. The weather caused several leaks in the roof of the high school and with more weather expected this week they made the decision to start spring break early. Students are currently scheduled to return to the class room on April 2nd.

A Rochester man will now spend time behind bars after pleading guilty to drug related crimes. Jerry Montanez-Figueroa, pleaded guilty to third degree drug possession after he was pulled over as a passenger in a car in 2020. Police searched the car and found 58.10 grams of methamphetamine, 43.01 grams of marijuana, two stolen license plates, a digital scale with white residue on it, two .40 caliber bullets, and four shotgun shells. The driver of the car has a warrant out for his arrest. Montanez-Figueroa will spend close to six years in prison.   

Power 96 News Brief 3-25

03/25/2024

The Albert Lea City Council will continue a public hearing on repaving several downtown alleys. The $275,000 project includes alleys between Elizabeth and Newton avenues, and from Clark to College street.Also Monday, the council will vote on purchasing three properties with unpaid taxes for $1 each: 821 Jefferson Ave., 917 S. Broadway Ave. and 122 Ermina Ave. S. The city would like to purchase the properties to remedy their blighted conditions.

A Rochester man was revived after a drug overdose early Monday. According to The Rochester Police Department an individual found a man unconscious under a bridge on 4th Street at around 3:15 am. Monday morning. Officers were called to the scene and gave the man two doses of Narcan. Police say the man, who is believed to be homeless, regained consciousness and was taken to St. Mary's Hospital to be checked out.

The Albert Lea wastewater treatment plant was recognized for its "outstanding" operations by the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency To receive this recognition, facilities must demonstrate consistent compliance with monitoring, operations, and maintenance requirements; submit accurate, on-time reports to the MPCA; and employ staff certified by the MPCA in wastewater operations. The wastewater treatment staff cleans up an average of 4 million gallons of wastewater a day before discharging it to the Shell Rock River.

Two people are in the hospital after a crash in North Iowa. The Cerro Gordo County Sheriff's Office says Frederick Giles was driving south on Thrush Avenue around 8:30 am when he lost control in snow and ice near 290th Street and his vehicle rolled over, landed on its wheels and went into a ditch.The Sheriff's Office says Frederick Giles and a passenger, Ruby Giles, complained of minor pain and were taken to MercyOne North Iowa Medical Center to be examined.