Local News
La Crosse cop charged with OWI after crash
BAC was three times legal limit
A La Crosse police officer was arrested for OWI Tuesday afternoon while off-duty following an accident in the Holland, Wis.
At 3:30 p.m., the La Crosse County Sheriff’s Office investigated a hit-and-run that resulted in property damage.
The investigation revealed that James Gegenfurtner was responsible, and appeared to be under the influence.
He was arrested for OWI after registering a .24 on a breath test.
He’s been placed on administrative leave pending an investigation. Gegenfurtner has been with the La Crosse P.D. since 1996. His current assignment is a first shift patrol officer.
“The allegations against Officer Gegenfurtner are very concerning and do not reflect the standards of a La Crosse police officer,” La Crosse police chief Ron Tischer said in a statement. “I will ensure that a fair and thorough investigation is completed.”
An internal investigation is being handled by the La Crosse Police Dept. and assigned to Asst. Chief Robert Abraham and Field Services Capt. Troy Nedegaard.
The dept. also said, “Due to the fact that this is an open and ongoing personnel matter, further information will not be released at this time.”
Robert Melbo
June 15, 2016 at 10:43 pm
Twenty years of service without any demerits and then he gets arrested for OUI? Bad decision on his part and I don’t believe he should be penalized except for being docked in pay for the extra cost for his insurance,. He was off duty, as I understand. Maybe a family affair? However the leaving the scene or hti and run is another theng . He should be suspended for that.