City Of Minnetonka: Meet Our Department's Newest Officers

Minnetonka MN

05 May, 2022

1:01 AM

Description

Press release from the City of Minnetonka: May 3, 2022 This spring, we welcomed three new officers to our team. Take a moment to get to know each of them. Meet Officer L. Abinader A former police officer with the New York Police Department, Officer Abinader comes from a law enforcement family with strong ties to the NYPD where his brother (police officer) and brother-in-law (detective) currently serve. Abinader's grandfather was also a police officer in the Dominican Republic. "I chose Minnetonka because a few of my friends from college at UND are from Minnetonka," Abinader said. "I really enjoyed visiting the city and the police department was very welcoming and supportive." Fast facts about Officer Abinader Favorite place to eat in Minnetonka: Kai's Sushi. I went there during my off-time and really enjoyed their sushi. Caffeine of choice on late-night shifts: I enjoy regular coffee with cream and sugar throughout the day. If I need an energy boost at night, I enjoy sugar-free Red Bull. Cats, dogs or another favorite pet: I don't have any pets currently, but if I did, I would get a dog. When not on duty: I enjoy going to the gym or exploring different trails/hiking. I've visited Purgatory Park and enjoyed walking that trail. Meet Officer M. Hallum Officer Hallum also has family ties to law enforcement. "I grew up hearing their stories and knew from a young age that is what I wanted to do," Hallum said. When his family made the decision to move to Minnesota, Hallum started researching different areas and police departments. "I had a friend who previously worked for Minnetonka PD, and he only had the best things to say about [the department]. That made my choice easy, and I have not regretted it," he said. Fast facts about Officer Hallum Favorite place to eat in Minnetonka: Chick-fil-A, whether it be before shift or after. Chick-fil-A breakfast and dinner is the best. Caffeine of choice on late-night shifts: Coffee to help me get through the day or night. Cats, dogs or another favorite pet: We have one cat named Bentley. When not on duty: We enjoy traveling as a family and love going to the beach for much needed getaways. Meet Officer J. Lindgren Officer Lindgren is following in the footsteps of his grandfather - quite literally. Lindgren's grandfather, Dick Lindgren, served with the Minnetonka Police Department for 25 years. Dick Lindgren was badge No. 12; Lindgren is badge No. 195. "I got into law enforcement after watching 'COPS' as a kid and listening to my grandpa's stories from when he was on the force," Lindgren said. Fast facts about Officer Lindgren Favorite place to eat in Minnetonka: Chipotle! Caffeine of choice on late-night shifts: Any energy drink that looks tasty Cats, dogs or another favorite pet: I have three dogs (a Shepard mix, a husky mix and a corgi) and one cat. When not on duty: I love to fish and just recently bought my first boat, hoping to get out on Lake Minnetonka this year! I also love going to the gym. This press release was produced by the City of Minnetonka. The views expressed here are the author's own.