Former Hill City Police Officer, Apple Valley Resident Charged in Hennepin County Criminal Sexual Conduct Case
Photo from Hill City Police Department Facebook which is now deleted
Published: May 19th 2026
HENNEPIN COUNTY MN: An Apple Valley resident and former Hill City police officer in Aitkin County has been charged in Hennepin County with felony third-degree criminal sexual conduct involving a teenage victim, according to a criminal complaint.
Jordan Zempel is charged with one count of third-degree criminal sexual conduct involving sexual penetration with a victim between the ages of 16 and 17 while in a position of authority, according to the complaint.
The charge alleges that between Sept. 12, 2025, and Nov. 30, 2025, Zempel engaged in sexual penetration with a victim who was at least 16 years old but younger than 18 and more than 36 months younger than him.
According to the complaint, Zempel was allegedly in a position of authority over the victim at the time of the alleged offense.
The case was filed under Minnesota Statute 609.344.1a(e). The felony charge carries a maximum penalty of 15 years in prison, a fine ranging from $10,000 to $30,000, or both, along with conditional release requirements if convicted.
Zempel is a former police officer in Hill City, Minnesota, located in Aitkin County.
The case remains pending in Hennepin County District Court.
Defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in court.