Sioux County Deputy resigns, ends appeal of firing

A Sioux County Sheriff’s Deputy who was fired last month has decided to end his appeal and resign. Deputy Del Walinga had appealed his firing by Sheriff Dan Altena last month. The reason for the firing of the 24-year-old deputy sheriff has not been made public. The county civil service commission was scheduled to hear Walinga’s appeal of the firing tomorrow (Tuesday) morning. Instead, Walinga’s resignation is effective at the time the hearing was scheduled to begin. County Attorney Melissa O’Rourke issued a statement that included Walinga’s resignation letter. His letter states in part that recent actions by the sheriff and mutual differences between Walinga and some current county officials and administration prompted him to re-evaluate his position. Walinga plans to continue to work as a part-time Orange City police officer. Walinga was the first deputy for former Sheriff Jim Schwiesow and ran for sheriff in the June primary and was defeated by Altena.