Wisconsin Officer Arrested for OWI, Hit and Run

(CHANNEL 8000) A La Crosse police officer was arrested Tuesday for an OWI and a hit and run accident.

Police responded to a property damage and hit and run in the Village of Holmen Tuesday afternoon.

It was found off-duty officer James Gegenfurtner was responsible for the accident and appeared to be under the influence. He was arrested and blew a .24 BAC.

James Gegenfurtner was hired by the La Crosse Police Department in 1996 and works as a first shift patrol officer. He has been placed on administrative leave pending a full internal investigation into the matter.

Chief Tischer stated, “the allegations against Officer Gegenfurtner are very concerning and do not reflect the standards of a La Crosse Police Officer. I will ensure that a fair and thorough investigation is completed."

The internal investigation is being handled by the La Crosse Police Department and assigned to Asst. Police Chief Robert Abraham and Field Services Captain Troy Nedegaard.

The La Crosse County Sheriff’s Department and the La Crosse County District Attorney’s office are responsible for the charging and prosecution in this matter.

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