Northfield man pleads guilty to killing family dogs during burglaries
In May of 2013 Northfield police arrested 30 year old Matthew David Jensen on suspicion of burglary and killing family dogs. According to court records, Jensen was charged with 9 felonies and 1 gross misdemeanor involving 1st and 2nd degree burglary, torture and mistreatment of animals and 5th degree drug possession. His trial was set then postponed then reset. In the meantime, Jensen’s been in and out of jail and is accused of more crimes while continuing to maintain innocence…. Until late yesterday afternoon when he pled guilty in Rice County District court to 6 felonies and a gross misdemeanor that included burglary and mistreatment of animals. 3 counts of mistreatment were combined. While victims sat crying in the courtroom, Jensen recounted his story of what happened when 2 dogs were killed during the burglary. He told Judge Neuville that an acquaintance is the one that killed the dogs in the first home invasion but that he’d encouraged it. Although he said he was “creeped out” by this mystery man. Prosecution pointedly asked Jensen who the acquaintance was, he said “Jay” and that’s all he knew. Northfield Police Chief Monte Nelson said today that they did search for this person. His investigators found no evidence of “Jay” from witnesses or other reports. Jensen admitted killing the 3rd dog in another break-in but said he didn’t mean to. Amanda Murphy, who lost her 2 dogs, sat crying and somewhat mystified as to parts of Jensen’s testimony, at times shaking her head. Her husband and neighbors comforting her. Jensen had cleaned up for court with shorn hair and clean shaven. At times, he cried during his testimony and blamed his actions on drugs. He has an extensive criminal history including receiving stolen property, assault, check forgery, dwi and drug possession. Neuville ordered a presentence investigation and set his sentencing for October 22nd. The victims will have a chance to make a statement at that time.
20-14 Budget amendment is just a “clean up”
During the Northfield City Council meeting Finance Director Melanie Schlomann requested a 2014 budget amendment stating that it was balancing funds, taking from one fund to pay another. She called it “clean up”. Some of the over budget funds include the EDA, the Library and the Park fund. She asked to reallocate funds from the Fire, which will not be used anymore, to balance out the other budgets. Ludescher wondered why they would be voting on a budget amendment for things already paid for. The amendment was approved 5 to 2 with DeLong and Ludescher voting no. Mayor Graham said they needed to move forward and staff is doing a good job in that direction. The net effect on the General Fund budget is zero. Graham added that the City Hall renovation went $17,000 over budget and they had no contingency fund. That was an item that some councilors felt really should’ve been approved of BEFORE the money was spent. Another piece to Ludescher’s argument has more to do with requiring a supermajority for amendments alluding to the mostly consistent 4/3 split on the council. Graham’s interview and the meeting are archived online at kymnradio.net.
Kasper benefit
The Eagles Club is hosting a spaghetti dinner to benefit Sid and Martha Kasper who lost their home in a fire. The event is today from 4 to 8pm. It’s $10 for adults and $5 for kids 10 and under. There will also be a cash dessert bar and bake sale. Donations may be made at First National Bank of Northfield.
Zoning and Planning meet tonight
The Planning Commission will meet following the zoning board of appeals at 7 tonight. The meetings will be streamed live online at kymnradio.net.
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The post Today’s news update – Northfield man pleads guilty to killing family dogs during burglaries; 20-14 Budget amendment is just a “clean up”; Kasper benefit; Zoning and Planning meet tonight appeared first on KYMN Radio - Northfield, MN.