KEEWATIN, Minn. (Northern News Now) – Michael Wayne Labine, the current mayor of Keewatin, is facing multiple criminal charges after allegedly stealing water from the city for years.
Labine, 67, has been charged with the following:
Felony Theft by Swindle
Felony Theft of Services
Gross Misdemeanor Misconduct by a Public Official
According to Itasca County court documents, Labine allegedly evaded utility fees by directing city workers to turn water on and off at his property without notifying city staff or making payments—resulting in an estimated $2,420 in unpaid water services.
The charges cover alleged activity from August 14, 2022, to August 14, 2025, though investigators say the misconduct may have begun as far back as 2012.
Witnesses, including current and former city employees, told investigators that Labine used his past role as a street crew supervisor—and later his position as mayor—to access a special shutoff key, which he either used himself or had others use to manage water access at his residence.
The water was reportedly turned on during family visits and then shut off months later, all without official service requests or payments.
A city clerk confirmed that in eight years on the job, she never saw Labine submit payment for water-related services. Other city workers stated that no city employee is exempt from paying for water reconnection, emphasizing the lack of fairness in Labine’s actions.
When confronted, Labine denied wrongdoing and claimed that if he didn’t pay, it was because city staff failed to file the service request properly.
If convicted, Labine could face up to five years in prison and $10,000 in fines per felony count. The gross misdemeanor carries a maximum penalty of 364 days in jail and a $3,000 fine.
His first court appearance is scheduled for October 8.
This story is developing, and updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
