Goedken named Sheriff Department's firearms instructor

The Winneshiek County Sheriff's Office has appointed Deputy Lee Goedken as their Firearms and Taser Instructor, replacing Deputy Garth Narum, who retired in September.

His principle duties will be to operate an internal program to guide fellow deputies in maintaining their skills, safe practices and certifications in various firearms.

Goedken is a 20-year law enforcement veteran.  In addition to working as a patrol deputy, he has served as a member of Winneshiek/Decorah Special Response Team since 2001.  In 2012, he became the agency's Certified Police Sniper.  Deputy Goedken also coordinates Winneshiek County sex offender registrations and violation investigations with the Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation – Sex Offender Registry and the United States Marshalls Service. Additionally, Deputy Goedken works as the Winneshiek County Sheriff's Office grant coordinator and has saved Winneshiek County $45,000 in equipment since 2002.

Goedken served four years with the United States Marine Corps from 1987 to 1992, including a combat tour of duty for Operation Desert Shield - Desert Storm from 1990 to 1991.

Sheriff Dan Marx says Goedken will serve well in this position.  "(Deputy Goedken) has a wealth of experience and knowledge and a passion for helping our office rise to the next level," said Marx.  "He is committed to safety and will ensure deputies are fully trained and proficient in the protective equipment we carry," Marx added.