Prior Lake officer charged in domestic dispute is fired

Last update: October 15, 2009 - 11:52 PM

A Prior Lake police officer who is charged with misconduct and three misdemeanor crimes after a dispute with his former girlfriend has been fired from his job.

Michael Ficken, who joined the department in 2003, was fired Sept. 21 after an internal investigation was completed.

City officials say Ficken has filed a grievance through his union, restricting them from commenting on any disciplinary action until his appeal has run its course.

Ficken was charged in Scott County District Court with one count each of misconduct by a public officer, which is a gross misdemeanor, as well as misdemeanor disorderly conduct, damage to property and fifth-degree assault.

According to court records, Ficken was on duty June 10 when he went to his former girlfriend's home, where he once lived. He had been given until June 15 to move out his belongings. When Ficken didn't recognize the car in the driveway, he ran the license plate and then entered the house.

He allegedly broke down a bedroom door as the woman tried to hold it shut, then yelled at her and a man who also was in the room. Ficken was in uniform at the time and wearing his gun and Taser. He didn't draw the weapons, but he allegedly placed his hand on his gun.

MARY LYNN SMITH

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