by Leanne Loy
On Jan. 29 officers from several agencies including the Sheriff’s Office, along with family and friends of Officer Brian Klinefelter remembered his sacrifice by having the honor guard conduct a wreath-laying ceremony at the site of his murder.
Officer Klinefelter was shot and killed on Jan. 29, 1996, during a traffic stop on CR 75. Two of the three suspects were apprehended and charged with first degree murder while the shooter, who was later found with a hostage, was shot and killed.
The tradition of honoring Klinefelter has reached its 26th year. It’s important to remember those who have fallen in the line of duty and a great reminder of what they and their families sacrifice for us every day.
A comment left on the Stearns County Sheriff’s Office Facebook page states:
“We remember Officer Klinefelter and the sacrifice he made that day.”
A moment of silence was shared between officers, family and friends.

On Jan. 29 officers, family and friends stood on the intersection of County 75 and 133 to honor fallen officer Brain Klinefelter who was shot and killed on the line of duty in 1996.