Deputy demoted after deciding to run for Sheriff

A political challenge has led to the demotion of a Sioux County sheriff’s deputy. Sioux County Sheriff Jim Schwiesow recently demoted Chief Deputy Dan Altena to Patrol Deputy. Both Schwiesow and Altena have announced intentions to run for Sioux County Sheriff next June. Schwiesow said he no longer had a good working relationship with Altena, and could no longer count on his loyalty. Altena says he decided to run because the long time sheriff had indicated that he was retiring, but a month later Schwiesow announced that he would seek another term. Altena says the demotion is unfair, and could cost him thousands of dollars in salary. The Sioux County board of supervisors want to make sure that if Altena’s pay is cut, the county will not be liable. The supervisors have decided to keep Altena at his current salary until at least July 1st, by that time they hope to have discussed the matter with the county’s labor negotiator.