It’s hard to say what 2024 will have in store, but for now, we’re looking back at some of the most bizarre local news stories of 2023. Notably, the Chippewa County sheriff texting scandal unfolded as Sheriff Travis Hakes was investigated for sending questionable text messages to a female employee. Locals also took notice when it was revealed that a controversial polygamist sect, the Fundamentalist Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, was building a compound near Menomonie. Rounding out the bizarre trio is the October headline about the Chippewa Falls man arrested for wielding a sword — specifically, a “black metal katana style sword” — at another man who had been armed with a homemade wooden sword. Fortunately, there were no serious injuries. —Hannah Angell