Sorensen named next OPD chief

The City of Owatonna has announced that Capt. Josh Sorensen has been selected to serve as its next chief of police.  

Sorensen, who has been with the Owatonna Police Department since 2004, will begin serving in this role effective Sept. 19, following the retirement of Chief Jeff Mundale. 

“Josh was the top candidate who stood out because of his professionalism, his expertise and his leadership,” said Owatonna City Administrator Jenna Tuma. “Josh is committed to Owatonna and his passion shows. We are excited to have him be our next chief of police.” 

The City of Owatonna conducted a comprehensive, multi-step process to identify its next chief of police. The selection process included an internal and external search, and two rounds of interviews with panel members consisting of representatives of the Owatonna City Council, city leadership, community leaders and representatives from a neighboring law enforcement department. 

Sorensen has previously served the OPD as a sergeant, mobile field force coordinator, detective, school liaison officer, firearms instructor, field training officer, defensive tactics instructor and coordinator and patrol officer. He received his Bachelor of Science in Law Enforcement from Minnesota State University-Mankato.