The Brookings Police Department is temporarily covering some of SDSU’s university police duties until a new UPD chief is hired.
Former SDSU university police chief Tim Heaton was fired last month after he was arrested on animal cruelty charges. Court documents say the charges stem from the treatment of dogs found in unsanitary conditions at his home.
SDSU asked the city to assist with some university police duties until Heaton’s replacement is hired. The university will reimburse the city for any costs.
The city agreed to that plan, which went into effect Friday.
“The City of Brookings values its strong partnership with South Dakota State University and cares about the safety and security of all its residents,” said City Manager Paul Briseno in a statement.