Widow of slain MN police officer explains decision to ban Walz from funeral

Since he was named Kamala Harris' running mate, Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz' tenure at the helm of his state has been under a heightened degree of scrutiny.

In the vein of fostering transparency about Walz and his record amid his current campaign, voters have recently been reminded of a decision made by the widow of a police officer killed in the line of duty to ban the liberal governor from her husband's funeral, as the New York Post reports.

Officer meets tragic end

As the Swift County Monitor-News reported in April of 2023, Pope County, Minnesota Sheriff's Deputy Josh Owen, 44, was gunned down as he and two colleagues attempted to respond to a domestic violence call.

All three responding officers were wounded in the incident, and while Owen was hospitalized, he later died at a local hospital, leaving a grieving wife and son to mourn his memory.

Owen's death yielded an outpouring of tributes, with Pope County Sheriff Tim Riley stating, “Deputy Owen had a heart as big as his stature. He leaves behind a wife and a son. He loved his family, his brotherhood, and his community.”

The late officer worked with the Pope County Sheriff's Office for almost 12 years and also spent time in the military.

Widow says no

Walz, as governor, developed a reputation among many as someone willing to entertain the defund the police arguments that gained popularity in the aftermath of the George Floyd riots that ravaged his state in 2020.

As such, Shannon Owen, the officer's widow, was adamant that Walz play no part in her husband's funeral.

Mrs. Owen made it clear that the governor was not welcome at services held for her spouse, and she even pledged to “escort” his “ass out” if he disregarded her wishes.

“You have never been a supporter of the police, and I'd just appreciate it if you just don't come anywhere near my town,” Owen said to Walz.

When asked why she took that position, Mrs. Owen replied, “Because you defunded the police. You don't even support the police, why would I want you to come?”

Walz backs down

Fortunately, Walz had the good sense not to force the issue, telling Owen, “I totally understand and respect your rights. Our officers are here to support you in any way you need,” he added.

Sadly, the governor did not possess similar clarity about supporting police during what was indisputably one of the most tumultuous periods his state has ever seen.