KDSN RADIO News
Former Harlan Police Officer resigns just short of job as police chief in New Hampton
(Radio Iowa) - The New Hampton Police Chief has resigned just days before his first anniversary on the job. New Hampton Mayor Steve Geerts accepted the resignation of Police Chief Tim Pederson. According to a press release, Pederson submitted his resignation because of “conduct that did not meet the expectations of a police chief’s position. On March 29th, while at a local store, Pederson noticed 40 dollars in cash left in a self-checkout lane. Rather than turn the money into customer service or store staff, Pederson kept the money and left the store. Pederson was called to the store when the customer returned looking for the money and he gave it back to the customer. The city adds that while the City of New Hampton is undoubtedly disappointed by Chief Pederson’s actions, they have been very pleased with his performance and the direction he has taken the police department. The City of New Hampton will have no further comment regarding the matter and wishes Pederson success in his future endeavors. Pederson joined the New Hampton Department on April 19th, 2023, after almost 20 years with the Harlan Police Department, including as the interim police chief from 2022-2023.