(KNSI) – A retired police chief is under arrest after allegedly using more than $65,000 in public money for personal expenses. Former Alexandria Police Cheif Richard Wyffels was taken into custody after a year long investigation by the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension (BCA). He was picked up at his home in Alexandria on Friday.
The 57 year old is charged with felony Theft by Swindle and was booked into the Douglas County Jail. He is expected to make his first court appearance next week.
According to the criminal complaint, Wyffels allegedly used the city issued credit card and debit card to buy $65,724.04 worth of stuff that wasn’t needed for the police department. Investigators say he used the money for personal expenses between December 2014 and July 2020. He allegedly used the money for personal electronics, landscaping gear, gas and other items. Some things, like a $4,900 spotting scope, were reportedly sold online by Wyffels after e retired.
The Stearns County Attorney’s Office is prosecuting the case for the Douglas County Attorney’s Office. The BCA initiated the investigation at the request of the City of Alexandria. The case is active and ongoing.
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