Copy shortlink: State authorities are investigating a former police chief in Alexandria for allegedly charging thousands of dollars of personal expenses on a city-issued credit card, ranging from electronics and gas to a new car battery. Over a 2½-year period, Richard Wyffels supposedly bought at least $13,000 in items and services that couldn't be accounted for, state Bureau of Criminal Apprehension agent Nicholas Riba wrote in a sworn affidavit accompanying a search warrant. The warrant says investigators have focused on dozens of purchases in locations around Alexandria to "illustrate a pattern of use and potential misuse of city funds." Wyffels, 57, has not been charged, but the Star Tribune is naming him because of his status as a former public official. He retired from the position in December.