Norfolk police officer arrested for DUI, employment under review

NORFOLK, Neb. — Norfolk Police are reviewing the employment of one of the division’s officers after authorities arrested him for driving under the influence.

It happened around 2:30 Sunday morning near 18th St. and Maple Ave. in Norfolk. A news release says officer Joshua Schlote, who was off-duty at the time, contacted an on-duty officer. According to the release, Schlote was highly intoxicated and involved in a disturbance with his wife.

The release says the on-duty officer notified a supervisor and determined that both Schlote and his wife had consumed alcohol and driven earlier in the night.

In order to avoid a potential conflict of interest, Norfolk Police turned the case over to the Madison County Sheriff’s Office, which investigated each person and arrested them both for DUI.

“The Norfolk Police Division holds its officers to a high standard of conduct both on and off duty,” Chief Brian Tighe said. “The officer’s behavior does not reflect the values of our department, and we are taking this matter seriously in alignment with our commitment to integrity, accountability, and public trust.” 

The release says Schlote is a recently hired certified officer and is currently serving his probationary period. His employment status is now under review.