Timothy Morgenstern Receives Sentence For Assaulting Student

Rochester, MN (KROC-AM News)- A former Rochester police officer has been sentenced for a criminal sexual conduct conviction.

In January, an Olmsted County jury found 25-year-old Timothy Robert Morgenstern guilty of third and fourth-degree criminal sexual conduct involving a victim between the ages of 16 and 17 years old by a person in a position of authority.

The case was prosecuted by the Fillmore County Attorney’s Office. Morgenstern was charged for the sex assault of a 16-year-old girl in January of 2023.

Get our free mobile app

Former Rochester Police Officer Gets Probation, Jail Sentence for Teen Sex Assault Conviction

The criminal complaint states that the teenage victim first disclosed to her therapist that she had been involved in an inappropriate relationship with the coach of her speech team at John Marshall High School.

Morgenstern, in addition to his job with the Rochester Police Department, served as the coach of the speech team, according to the charges.

The Rochester Police Department reported that he was immediately placed on administrative leave and was fired about a week later when the allegations first surfaced two years ago.

If you or someone you know has been sexually assaulted, resources are available for help. Visit the RAINN website (Rape, Abuse, and Incest National Network) or dial 800-656-HOPE (800-656-4673).

Following his termination, the Rochester Police Department issued a statement indicating that Morgenstern was first hired in October 2021.

The statement also noted that there were no disciplinary issues involving Morgenstern during his brief tenure with the police department.

On Monday Morgenstern was sentenced to 10 years probation and 90 days in jail, according to Olmsted County Court records.