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New Hawley Police Chief is Sworn In

By Derek Sidian Mar 18, 2025 | 9:33 AM

Retiring Hawley Police Chief Joseph Backlund and Chief Scott Steer. (Hawley PD)

Hawley, MN – Hawley has sworn in a new Chief of Police.

On Monday evening (March 17th), Hawley Police Officer Scott Steer took the oath of office to be the next Chief of Police for the city. After the oath of office, Chief Joseph Backlund pinned the Chief’s badge on Chief Steer.

Chief Backlund is retiring after 30 years in law enforcement, with almost 10 of those years dedicated to the citizens of Hawley. After being sworn in, Chief Steer presented Chief Backlund a plaque and replica badge for his upcoming retirement. Chief Backlund’s last shift is March 28th.

In a Facebook post, the Hawley Police Department says, “We would like to congratulate Chief Steer on his new role with the Hawley Police Department. Congratulations, Chief Backlund as he begins the next chapter of post public service.”

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