26-03-2025
Washington County deputy resigns after accusation of stealing food from gas station
A Washington County sheriff's deputy has resigned after being accused of repeatedly stealing food items from a Richfield gas station, according to a news release from the sheriff's office.
The deputy, who had been on staff for nearly 10 years, was immediately placed on administrative leave Feb. 27 after the sheriff's office was notified, according to the news release.
"The actions alleged are wholly unacceptable, a direct violation of the core values that this agency stands for," Sheriff Martin Schulteis said.
A preliminary interview showed concerns about "possible criminal intent," so the Washington County Sheriff's Office requested the assistance of the Waukesha County Sheriff's Office to conduct a "thorough, transparent, and impartial criminal investigation," the release said.
Because of a conflict of interest, the Washington County District Attorney's Office has requested appointing of a special prosecutor to review the criminal investigation.
The deputy's resignation does not impact any potential criminal proceedings.
"As public servants, we are entrusted with upholding the law and protecting the communities we serve," Schulteis said. "Although the monetary loss to the business may not be significant, these alleged actions represent a profound betrayal of trust. Such alleged behavior undermines public confidence in our agency and will not be tolerated."
The Washington County Sheriff's Office told a Milwaukee Journal Sentinel reporter they cannot release any other information. A message left with the Washington County District Attorney's Office was not immediately returned.
Cathy Kozlowicz can be reached at 262-361-9132 or Follow her on X at @kozlowicz_cathy.
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This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Washington County deputy accused of retail theft in Richfield
