Pine County, MN (Northland's NewsCenter) --- An internal Pine County Sheriff's Office investigation has revealed that 12 documented firearms are missing.
Citizens have complained of firearms not being properly returned to their rightful owners.
An internal audit found that access control and book keeping measures in place since 2001 were not in compliance with state mandated standards.
It was further determined that during the period from 2008 to early 2011, twelve firearms documented to be in the custody of the Sheriff's Office are missing.
Fifteen Sheriff's Office employees are being investigated for alleged misconduct.
Eleven internal investigations have been conducted over the past year in response to internal and citizen complaints.
Some of the allegations reported are sexual harassment, excessive force, abuse of authority, domestic violence, failure to follow established policies and orders, and the mishandling of property.
The firearms investigation is still ongoing at this time. Numerous control measures have been implemented to enhance accountability of all property, and ensure property accountability procedures meet or exceed state standards.
All of the above investigations have produced disciplinary actions ranging from oral and written reprimands up to and including termination from employment.
A news conference is scheduled for Jan. 30th to address the investigations.
Posted to the web by Alyssa Kroeten
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