2018 Annual Report

FARGO POLICE DEPARTMENT 2018

TROPER LAUNNA

We provide services that are driven by genuine care for our community, each other and the laws we are trusted to uphold

SAFETY

COURTESY

EMPATHY

TRUST

contents 2018 Annual Report

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FROM THE CHIEF

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CRIME STATISTICS The department compiles crime statistics in accordance to the requirements of the Uniform Crime Reports of the Federal Bureau of Investigation.

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Patrol, Downtown Resource Officers, K9, Community Engagement Team, Park Officer, School Resource Officers , and SWAT.

Criminal Investigations Unit, Narcotics Unit, Intelligence Unit, and the Metro Street Crimes Unit.

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FIELD SERVICES DIVISION

ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES DIVISION Records Unit, Property Unit, Training Division, Recruiting Division, Public Relations, Finance, and Awards.

INVESTIGATIVE SERVICES DIVISION

FUN FACTS

FROM THE CHIEF

2018 ANNUAL REPORT | 3

Welcome to our 2018 Annual Report and thank you for your interest in the Fargo Police Department. We have a lot of exciting growth happening at the Fargo Police Department along with some significant projects we are in the midst of accomplishing.

We are in the second phase of renovating an acquired building for a new police headquarters, which is the Border States Electric building at 105 25th St. N. We have moved our Field Services Division, which comprises approximately 130 full-time employees into half of the building and they are operational out of that location. We received the approval and funding for phase 2 of the fit-up for the rest of the building and anticipate moving the Investigations Division and the Administrative Division into the new location this year.

We had a 3% total increase in crime in 2018, most of it related to burglaries and theft. A significant amount of this activity appears to be addiction driven. People are breaking into homes, garages and businesses, stealing to gain money for methamphetamine and opioid drugs such as heroin and fentanyl. We continue to focus on this activity through Intelligence Led Policing strategies and by working closely with our neighboring law enforcement agencies.

Another concern is an increase in person on person crimes such as homicide, sexual assault and aggravated assault. These crimes are often emotionally driven and are more difficult to predict and prevent. The Fargo Police Department does diligently track people required to register as offenders and also uses Intelligence Led Policing strategies to identify possible suspects of violent crime.

Currently the Fargo Police Department is authorized to staff 181 sworn officer positions and approximately 24 non sworn staff. As the community has grown, so have the challenges associated with protecting and serving our community. We have grown rapidly as a department in the last four years in order to catch up with the growth of the community. We appreciate the support of that growth by our commission and our community.

I am incredibly proud of the men and women at the Fargo Police Department and I know what an honor it is to be the chief of their organization. I hope you enjoy our 2018 Annual Report.

Chief David E. Todd

CRIME STATISTICS

2018 ANNUAL REPORT | 4

The statistics below meet the requirements of the Uniform Crime Reports (UCR) of the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The FBI compiles and publishes crime data for the nation regularly.

The UCR are divided into Part I and Part II offenses. Part I offenses are considered more serious and include violent crimes. Other less serious offenses are classified as Part II offenses. Fargo's crime rate is approximately 35 Part I crimes per 1,000 people, based on the U.S. Census Bureau 2018 population estimate of Fargo of 122,359.

Offense

2014

2015

2016

2017

2018

Change % Change

Homicide

4

3

3

2

6

4

200%

Gross Sexual Imposition

66

59

79

99

118

19

19%

Robbery

72

53

69

69

63

-6

-9%

Aggravated Assault

204

240

257

261

300

39

15%

Arson

12

19

11

6

6

0

0%

Burglary

494

601

564

575

687

112

19%

Vehicle Theft

161

207

237

209

208

-1

0%

Shoplifting

801

958

969

791

795

4

1%

Theft from Vehicle

307

395

427

365

390

25

7%

All Other Thefts

1,118

1,193

1,676

1,870

1,796

-74

-4%

Total Part I Offenses

3,239

3,278

4,255

4,248

4,370

122

3%

Total Part II Offenses

5,416

6,278

6,059

7,163

7,405

242

3%

Total Offenses

8,655

10,006

10,314

11,411

11,775

364

3%

4,370

7,405

11,775

PART I OFFENSES

PART II OFFENSES

TOTAL OFFENSES

3 % more than 2017

3 % more than 2017

3 % more than 2017

Office of Professional Standards Lieutenant Jared Crane + Sergeant Shane Aberle

82 INCIDENT REVIEWS

The Office of Professional Standards conducted 82 incident reviews involving 98 officers for response to resistance, officer involved crashes, motor vehicle pursuits and tire deflation device deployment.

Officers used force to overcome resistance in 44 incidents, and 43 of these incidents were determined to have been within policy. Thirty officer involved crashes were reviewed. Of these crashes, 18 were determined to have been preventable resulting in four personnel complaints, and 12 were determined to be non-

20 PERSONNEL COMPLAINTS preventable.

The Office of Professional Standards

investigated 20 personnel complaints in 2018 involving 19 different officers. Sixteen were sustained, two not sustained, one was found to be a policy failure, and one resulted in

19 DISCIPLINARY ACTIONS mediation.

Nineteen complaints were sustained resulting in one verbal consultation, nine letter of consultations, five letter of reprimands, two educational based discipline, one suspension, and one resignation.

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FIELD SERVICES

Deputy Chief Ross Renner

89,565

6,592

13,366

Patrol officers responded to

Fargo Police Officers made

Fargo Police Officers issued

89, 565 calls for service in

6,592 arrests in 2018, a 7%

12,366 traffic citations in 2018,

2018, a 0% increase from 2017.

decrease from 2017.

a 10% decrease from 2017.

PATROLLING FARGO The City of Fargo is geographically patrolled with officers in four districts which are broken down into 12 beats. Each district and beat have their own unique challenges, and the District Commanders are tasked with finding the most effective and efficient means to make their district a safe place to live, work and visit.

The department has a number of specialty positions which fall under the Field Services Division to include the K9 Unit, Community Trust Officers, Cultural Liaison Officer, Downtown Resource Officers, School Resource Officers, Park Officer, and the Truck Regulatory Officer.

2018 ANNUAL REPORT | 6

DISTRICT 2 Lt. Travis Stefonowicz District 2, also known as the Central District, responded to 22, 137 calls for service in 2018. The district saw some success in catching criminals committing property crimes. Unfortunately, they did not stay away from our community very long and proved to be quite the challenge for District 2.

DISTRICT 1

District 2 had a small geographical

Lt. Chris Helmick

and recovered on a regular basis.

area where vehicles were stolen A beat officer was able to put

District 1 is also known as the "Downtown District" and is the busiest

together a method of operation,

district in the City. District 1 patrol officers responded to 23, 346 calls

and determine our suspects in

for service in 2018.

these crimes. Officers dedicated time and resources to get them off

In 2018, officers increased patrols in "hot spot" areas, frequently

the streets, which curbed

checked on suspicious activity, educated the public on crime trends,

additional thefts.

and targeted specific individuals and locations that drove crime. As a result of their efforts, the district was able to achieve a decrease in major crimes for the third year in a row.

Supervisors made adjustments to officers schedules to get them out at peak times of the day in the downtown area, especially along Broadway. They were able to use grant money to put extra officers along Broadway during bar closing time on the weekends.

District 1 continued to see issues related to underage drinking and loud parties in the campus area. This is a continuing concern for north-side neighborhoods. In response to these concerns and issues, extra officers were assigned to address the problem by writing tickets for loud parties, underage drinking, littering, and any other offenses. Officers also talked to renters to educate them about loud party laws and how to be better neighbors.

2018 ANNUAL REPORT | 7

The district saw a five percent reduction in crime, but it was no small feat.

District 2 also includes the area around the NDSU campus, and received a number of complaints.

Officers teamed up with the NDSU Police Department to work various details to combat the issues.

DISTRICT 4 Lt. Bill Ahlfeldt District 4, also known as the West District, is the largest district in the City. The district is comprised of new single family developments, a lot of apartment developments and shopping corridors. Officers responded to 20, 470 calls for service in 2018. District 4 experienced an increase in

DISTRICT 3 Lt. George Vinson District 3 , also known as the South District, officers responded to 19,437 calls for service in 2018, and saw decreases in criminal mischief and unlawful vehicle entry offenses. During the year, officers focused on several areas of concern. One of those concerns was the hotel district near 13 Ave. S. and Interstate 29. Officers took a two pronged approach to combat crime here. Officers spent more time in these areas to deter crime and collect information from people. Additionally, they used an education component by providing training to local hotel and motel managers on what drug activity, human trafficking and other suspicious activity looks like. Another area of focus for the District was 14 and 15 St. by KMart. This area has received high calls for service and area of crime in the past. Officers saw some success in reducing crime and calls for service by increased officer presence and working with property managers.

property crime, primarily concentrated in the southernmost portion of the City. The district was also impacted by coin thefts from coin operated laundry machines at apartment buildings. On the upside, the district saw a decrease in unlawful entry to motor vehicles.

In response to apartment garage burglaries, district officers met with multiple property managers to "harden" easily defeated garage locks with wireless keypads.

Officers conducted directed patrol in identified areas of the District, and made multiple arrests of wanted individuals and identified suspects. In July, officers arrested six individuals, which solved a number of garage burglaries committed throughout the summer. These arrests were the result of great teamwork between patrol and our Investigations Unit.

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DOWNTOWN RESOURCE OFFICERS Officer Jesseca White Officer Scott Normandin

The Fargo Police Department has two officers specifically assigned to provide enhanced police services to the downtown area. Their job is to help promote a revitalized, safe and clean downtown that will appeal to our citizens and visitors.

2018 marked a significant amount of growth and adaptation for Downtown Fargo. The Downtown Resource Officers (DROs) worked hard to keep the downtown area running smoothly through construction, detours, and road closures to ensure people wouldn't be deterred from visiting our vibrant downtown by collaborating with many entities during major downtown parades and events.

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Each year, one of the largest

practices, and to develop

entities in 2019. In August 2016,

events that draws people to

training specific to their

DRO White and several

downtown, is the Street Fair.

organization in reference to the

employees with the Gladys Ray

This year was the first year

diverse population that is found

Shelter started a program for

where alcohol was permitted to

in the downtown area. Both

chronically homeless

be served outside during the

DROs trained in crisis

individuals to work off their

intervention, attended the ND

fines accrued through municipal

Association of Psychiatry

court by completing community

conference to discuss barriers

service projects in the

in mental health treatment in

downtown area. By the end of

ND, and brainstormed ideas

2019, the participants in the

with service providers on ways

program have worked off

to improve the process.

almost $30,000 worth of fines.

event. The DROs worked closely with the Downtown Community Partnership as they moved forward with a pilot program to have public consumption of alcohol at certain events such as the Street Fair. This pilot program went very well, with close to zero issues, and was

Many of the participants were In an effort to better allocate

able to connect with resources

ordinance late in 2018.

services and connect those in

that helped them with housing

need with services, DRO White

or treatment for mental health

The DROs continued to foster

worked with the City IT

and/or chemical dependency

relationships with businesses

Department to start a GIS

issues.

and organizations to increase

tracking system to be utilized

communication and a better

by the park department,

working environment.

homeless outreach,

Throughout the year, the DROs

engineering, and the police

attended meetings with

department to report

different stakeholders within

encampments within the city of

the downtown community to

Fargo. DRO White is hoping to

made a permanent part of City

discuss concerns, best

expand the system to other

2018 ANNUAL REPORT | 10

K9 UNIT

Lieutenant George Vinson Sergeant Collin Gnoinsky

FALCO

BLUE

UNO

Age: 7

Age: 4

Age: 2

Handler: Officer Cochran

Handler: Officer Bollman

Handler: Officer Cernik

Assignment: Night Shift

Assignment: Evening Shift

Assignment: Day Shift

2018 Deployments: 203

2018 Deployments: 261

2018 Deployments: 129

2018 was a very active year for the K9 Unit with a notable 716 deployments, 322 more than 2017! The high number of deployments is indicative of the role the unit has worked towards over the years. Officers and detectives use our canines for a variety of reasons, mostly narcotics detection sniffs. The unit also values public demonstrations, and loves to get out and meet people. The K9s like to disprove stereotypes that police dogs are aggressive animals not to be exposed to people. In fact, our K9s like human interaction just like most pets!

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K9 FALCO Officer Dave Cochran K9 Falco has been with the department since 2012. In 2018, some notable cases for K9 Falco are: K9 Falco was deployed to sniff a vehicle for patrol and located 57.1 grams of meth inside the vehicle.

K9 Falco won patrol case of the 2nd quarter through NPCA.

K9 UNO Officer Brad Cernik In 2018, Officer Cernik and K9 Uno were assigned to the day shift where they

K9 Falco located two suspects on a track after they committed burglary to a garage and fled from officers in a vehicle and on foot.

saw an increase in deployment requests from the day shift officers compared to prior canine teams.

K9 Uno's first track was assisting West Fargo Police Department locate a suspect who had felony warrants and fled from them. The suspect was a known criminal who was committing crimes around the Fargo-Moorhead area.

K9 Falco assisted the Clay County Sheriff's Office after they entered into a pursuit with a vehicle that entered North Dakota, at which

K9 Uno took the track along the river bank for a short distance before finding

time the pursuit was terminated.

the suspect hiding in the thick riverside brush. The suspect gave up without an

The North Dakota Highway Patrol

apprehension.

later located the vehicle parked in a neighborhood. K9 Falco located

Another notable case for K9 Uno was when the Postal Inspectors requested a sniff on a package. Narcotic detectives were working a heroin case involving the package. Five packages, similar in size, were lined up in a semi-trailer along the side wall. K9 Uno alerted to a package which was opened under a federal search warrant, and 28 grams of black tar heroin was located inside.

the suspect hiding, and the keys to the vehicle, linking the suspect to the vehicle.

K9 Falco located a suspect who was wanted for terrorizing and aggravated domestic assault who had fled officers on foot. K9 Falco located the suspect hiding in a vehicle.

K9 Falco earned patrol case of the 2nd quarter through the NPCA.

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K9 KILO Narcotics Unit In 2018, the Fargo Police Department added a canine to the Narcotics Unit. K9 Kilo has been active since January 2018, and unfortunately, there has been no shortage of work for K9 Kilo. K9 Kilo was deployed 123 times in 2018.

Some notable cases for K9 Kilo were: K9 Kilo alerted to an apartment on Dakota Drive, which led to a search

K9 BLUE

warrant and the seizure of 4 pounds of

Officer Sam Bollman

currency, and a 2015 Mercedes C320.

K9 Blue has been with the department since 2017. In 2018, some notable cases for K9 Blue were:

marijuana, 6.7 grams of cocaine, 10 Adderall pills, $12,410 seized US

K9 Kilo alerted to a vehicle traveling back from Utah which was suspected to

K9 Blue was deployed to assist the DEA with a transit sniff at Amtrak. K9 Blue

contain cocaine. A search led to the

alerted to a duffel bag that came from the west coast. A search warrant of the bag

discovery of one pound of cocaine

revealed 20 pounds of marijuana, 276 grams of wax, 154 grams of cocaine, 93 grams

concealed in the rear headrest/panel in

of mushrooms, and 52 doses of Oxycontin.

the backseat.

K9 Blue assisted a Postal Inspector with a sniff of a package. K9 Blue alerted to the

K9 Kilo assisted a Postal Inspector and

package which contained nearly one pound of cocaine.

K9 Blue was deployed to locate items a shoplifter was seen throwing as she ran from police. K9 Blue found those items, which were stolen credit cards.

alerted to one of the packages. A search warrant led to the discovery of one pound of meth.

K9 Blue assisted patrol on a vehicle sniff and alerted to the vehicle. A search

K9 Kilo assisted the DEA with a sniff on

revealed a small amount of narcotics, stolen checks and identification cards, and

a vehicle involved with an arranged

other evidence connected to 11 vehicle break in cases. The responsible parties

meth deal/investigation. K9 Kilo alerted

were sentenced to 18 months in prison.

to the vehicle and the initial cursory search did not turn up any contraband.

An interior sniff and expanded search led to the discovery of one pound of meth concealed inside the dash of the truck.

K9 Kilo assisted a Postal Inspector in a package sniff and alerted to one package. A search warrant of the package led to the discovery of 4.86 pounds of meth.

2018 ANNUAL REPORT | 13

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT TEAM Lieutenant Bill Ahlfeldt + Sergeant Kevin Pallas Officers Niemeyer, Bloom, Carlson, and Kempf

"IT'S TIME" MUSIC VIDEO The team made their second music

During the production of the video,

recognize several parties who

video with DPB & Crew titled "It's

the community engagement team

have helped the group and

Time" and involved several

highlighted various business,

contributed to the video The video

members of the local Fargo

nonprofits, news stations and

was released on the department's

Moorhead community. The

healthcare facilities to show all

social media platforms including

purpose of the song was to

the great work people are doing in

YouTube and has had over

highlight the unseen heroes in our

our community.

200,000 views.

and Officer Bloom kept this in

The group held a video premier

Watch the video here.

mind when writing the lyrics.

event at a local church to

community. Recording artist DPB

FARGO UNITED The team hosted two park

The purpose of the events were to

The team partnered with several

outreach events called "Fargo

connect the local community with

local churches and organizations

United" at Madison Park and

law enforcement in a fun and

to provide free food, prize

Jefferson West Park. These two

casual setting. During the event,

giveaways, and entertainment.

parks were chosen because of the

officers were able to socialize

diverse population that live within

with event goers and play games

those two communities.

with youth.

2018 ANNUAL REPORT | 14

IT'S TIME SCHOOL ASSEMBLIES The team hosted a "It's Time"

speaker Chris Singleton who

"It's Time", and powerful dance

school assembly production in

delivered a powerful message of

and music interpretations. The

seven local middle and high

"love is stronger than hate." Chris'

team was able to reach over 7,000

schools. These assemblies

speech empowered students to

students between the seven

focused on combating bullying

love one another and accept each

schools.

and racism, and emphasized the

other for who they are.

power that love has over hate.

You can watch a recap of the The team collaborated with DPB &

The team brought in inspirational

school assemblies here.

Crew to perform their new song

"YOU HAVE A VOICE AND A CHOICE IN THIS PLACE IN THIS SCHOOL TO CHANGE LIVES"-OFFICER BLOOM

SUMMER CAMP In 2018, the department assumed

The Fargo Police Summer Camp

the administration and operation

was financially possible due to

of a portion of the C4 Summer

several local, generous donations.

Camp that had been operated in conjunction with Charism in 2017.

Officer Bloom and Carlson helped

The department's portion of the

out with Charism summer camp by

camp focused on elementary

participating in sporting activities,

youth from Ed Clapp and Jefferson

interacting and providing positive

Elementary, while Charism and

mentoring to the youth involved in

Officers Bloom and Carlson

the camp. Officer Bloom joined the

continued the C4 Camp which

summer camp on several field

focused on middle school aged

trips where youth learned about

youth. The students were able to

the workforce in Fargo, and what

partake in a lot of fun activities

different careers they can pursue

during the summer provided by

as they get older.

TNT Kid's Fitness, swimming, Elevate Rock School and the MSUM Science Center.

2018 ANNUAL REPORT | 15

COMMUNITY OUTREACH Community outreach is one of the

The team attended many weekly

their personal struggle with

team's core focus. Throughout the

meetings that involved troubled

addiction.

year, the four officers created

youth as a means of support and

huge impacts in our community

provide a resource to those youth.

In the fall, the team partnered

with their outreach and

During the spring, the team held a

with Creative Plains Foundation to

partnership with local

four week program where they

host an event with the Boys and

organizations.

provided fun and educational

Girls Club where youth created

activities for the youth. Each

their own design for the new team

The team partnered with the Cass

program started with a fun

challenge coin. Ten designs were

County Juvenile Drug Court to

activity and closed with a guest

submitted, with one winner to be

mentor youth struggling with

speaker who spoke about

chosen. The coins are meant to be

addiction.

used as a gift of appreciation to our community partners and an achievement award for youth who demonstrate significant personal growth.

The team partnered with the Boys and Girls Club, MPX Fitness, and Barbot Boxing and Fitness to run a six week health and wellness program for youth. The focus was to encourage youth to take control over their destinies.

CULTURAL OUTREACH Officer Carlson joined the team in

Officer Carlson also worked with

April of 2018. His position was

several new American youth who were

created as a hybrid position between

having behavioral issues in school and

our Community Trust Officers and the

at home. He worked on building

Cultural Liaison Officer. Officer

positive relationships between them

Carlson worked specifically with New

and law enforcement, and helped

American youth, alongside the

facilitate resources for them.

Cultural Liaison Officer Vince Kempf to teach, educate, and build rapport

Officer Carlson also spent a lot of time

within the New American cultures in

with the Dakota Boys and Girls Ranch

our community.

and Luther Hall. His desire to foster positive law enforcement interactions

Officers Kempf and Carlson have

with at-risk-youth led him to plan a

embedded themselves in the New

soccer game between youth and

American community by giving

police officers. Many youth who

presentations on various topics such

participated were able to create

as traffic stops, domestic violence,

meaningful relationships with the

what to expect on calls for service,

police officers, many of whom had

crashes, and department

negative experiences with law

programming.

enforcement in the past.

2018 ANNUAL REPORT | 16

PARK OFFICER OFFICER JOSH MARVIG Lieutenant George Vinson Sergeant Kevin Pallas In 2018, the full-time Park Officer position was an addition to both the Fargo Police Department and the Fargo Park District in order to help make parks a place where kids and families feel safe to run free.

Officer Marvig spent a majority of his time during the summer learning the Park District properties and their individual issues. Through his time in the parks, he noticed a considerable amount of people using them to fish the Red River.

During the summer months, Officer Marvig attended several park events such as, Party In the Park, to engage with the community and spread knowledge of his new position.

Officer Marvig responded to 758 calls for service that directly related to park district property.

2018 ANNUAL REPORT | 17

School Resource officers LIEUTENANT WILLIAM AHLFELDT The department has seven school resource officers, Officer Jason Abel at North High School, Officer Troy Nielsen at South High School, Officer Derek Johnson at Davies High School, Officer Kyle Ness at Woodrow Wilson, Officer Amy Kingzett at Discovery Middle School, Officer Dane Hjelden at Ben Franklin Middle School, Officer Ryan Dietrich at Carl Ben Eielsen, and Sergeant Cristie Jacobsen who was at South High School until her promotion to the rank of sergeant in the fall. The program is overseen by Sergeant Kevin Pallas.

For the first day of school, the SROs had a friendly competition to see who could come up with the best "first day of school photo." All of the photos were great, but Officer Johnson won by a slight margin with his kittie lunch box and pink bicycle!

During the summer, Discovery Middle School SRO Kingzett and South High School SRO Jacobsen assisted the Optimist Club with "Safety Town." This program teaches children safety through indoor and outdoor instruction on pedestrian and bike safety, stranger danger, and traffic signs.

2018 ANNUAL REPORT | 18

SWAT R e d R i v e r V a l l e y S WA T T e a m

SWAT COMMANDER

The Red River Valley SWAT (Special Weapons and Tactics) Team is a highly trained group of Law Enforcement Officers for the purpose of responding to high risk incidents in our region. The Team is made up of a Tactical Unit which includes Tactical Medics, a Negotiations Unit and a Bomb Unit. The Team is made up of Officers, Deputies and Medics from the Fargo Police Department, West Fargo Police

Lieutenant Wi l l i a m A h l f e l d t

Department, NDSU Police Department, Cass County Sheriff’s Office, Moorhead Police Department, Clay County Sheriff’s Office, FM Ambulance and Sanford Lifeflight.

Our department has 13 tactical operators, three negotiators, two bomb technicians including the commander, and assistant commander.

2018 ANNUAL REPORT | 20

TACTICAL TEAM The SWAT Team was called on 14 times in 2018 for a variety of

The team also assisted the Secret

different situations. During two of those incidents, the situation

Service Counter Assault Team in June

was resolved prior to the team arriving on scene and they were

when President Donald Trump visited

cancelled.

Fargo.

In March, they responded to an individual in West Fargo who was

In 2018, members of the SWAT Team

barricaded in their vehicle with multiple weapons. The suspect

attended some specialized training to

had been involved in the theft of several firearms. During an

include breaching tactics, less lethal

attempted traffic stop, the suspect had fled from officers and

options and use, and an advanced

intentionally rammed one of the police cars. The suspect came to

SWAT Course. The Red River Valley

a stop in a neighborhood after the vehicle became disabled. The

SWAT Team was asked to provide

SWAT Team was requested to assist with the situation. The

training for other teams in our region.

suspect refused to exit the vehicle and presented a firearm to

In 2018, the SWAT Team taught a

officers several times. Eventually, the suspect exited the vehicle

Rural/Wooded searching Tactics course

and presented a lethal threat at officers and SWAT Operators on

at the Special Operations Training

scene. Several SWAT Operators engaged the suspect with

Association Conference in St. Cloud,

gunfire. Two Fargo Police SWAT team members were awarded the

MN. They also taught a firearms

combat cross award for their actions in this incident.

training class for entry teams and sniper teams at the Special Operations

In March, Vice President Mike Pence visited Fargo and the SWAT

Committee meeting in Fargo.

Team was called to assist the Secret Service Counter Assault Team for security. The team was used in an over-watch capacity

In 2018, the SWAT Team participated in

at different sites during his visit, as well as security within his

the Special Olympics Polar Plunge, the

motorcade.

Fargo Holiday Lights Parade, the Fargo Police Community Picnic, many group tours of SWAT headquarters, and group SWAT presentations.

ALL WE WANT IS ALL YOU'VE GOT.

2018 ANNUAL REPORT | 21

NEGOTIATIONS UNIT The Negotiations Unit was utilized 7 times in 2018. The Negotiations Unit assisted the Tactical Team on several calls related to search warrants and were utilized for suicidal individuals on several occasions. The Negotiations Unit is a valuable asset to the SWAT Team as they often are able to calm extremely tense situations to bring them to a peaceful resolution. The Negotiations team trains together every month on different topics to include, active listening, intelligence gathering and researching new tactics to assist them in the art of negotiating. Members from the Negotiations Unit attended the Special Operations Committee meeting in Fargo in 2018.

BOMB SQUAD In 2018, The Red River Valley Regional Bomb Squad responded to

The Bomb Squad trains twice a month

39 various situations. The team was sent on:

for eight hours each day to help achieve

· 5 calls of suspicious packages or hoaxes

this requirement. The Bomb Squad also

· 16 calls to pick up old ammunition and dispose of it

trained with the Fargo Fire Department

· 9 calls for an explosive device or powder

Hazmat team in 2018 as they have to

· 5 calls to assist the Tactical Team

work together on different incidents

· 4 calls related to security sweeps for dignitary visits

related to dangerous materials. In addition to this partnership, the Bomb

The Bomb Squad has been able to acquire a wide variety of new

Squad also met with the ND National

equipment over the last few years which helps them stay safe

Guard Explosive Ordinance Disposal

and efficiently dispose of dangerous materials. Staying proficient

unit in 2018 to discuss ways they can

with these various pieces of high tech equipment requires a lot of

work together in the future and be a

training and familiarization over the course of the year.

resource for each other.

2018 ANNUAL REPORT | 22

CRIMINAL INVESTIGATIONS UNIT I n v e s t i g a t i o n s Di v i s i o n

DEPUTY CHIEF

In 2018, the Fargo Police Department's Criminal Investigations Unit had three teams: Adult Violent Crimes, Property Crimes, and Crimes Against Children with 17 detectives and three sergeants. Over the

T o d d Os mu n d s o n L i e u t e n a n t C h r i s He l mi c k L i e u t e n a n t J a s o n Ne l s o n S e r g e a n t C h r i s Ni c h t e r n

course of the year, detectives investigated over 1,500 major cases ranging from homicide to thefts from vehicles to human trafficking.

In addition, detectives assisted several other agencies such as Cass County Social Services, the North Dakota Bureau of Criminal Investigation, and Homeland Security. The unit is also responsible with the tracking of every sex offender required to register in the City of Fargo. Detectives ensured sex offenders registered their addresses, coordinated periodic checks and investigated all registration violations. The unit focused on training detectives in

S e r g e a n t C a r l o s Ne s t l e r

computer and cell phone forensics, arson investigation, and crime scene analysis. The unit started using a new crime scene mapping

Sergeant Junell Krabbenhoft

device which allows them to capture images of crime scenes in 3D. 2018 ANNUAL REPORT | 24

CRIMINAL INVESTIGATIONS UNIT CONTINUED I n v e s t i g a t i o n s Di v i s i o n In January, members of a nationwide criminal networks started conducting "smash and grab" thefts in Fargo. The suspects targeted individuals who were stopping at daycares, gyms, movie theaters, and other locations. While the owners were inside the business, the suspects would break car windows and steal valuables in a short amount of time. Through a cooperative effort between Patrol, Investigations, Narcotics, and the Metro Area Street Crimes Unit, the suspects were identified and arrested. Several stolen items were also recovered.

Between February and March, 23 garage burglaries occurred in the Osgood Neighborhood area. Thousands of dollars in property were stolen during these incidents, including firearms. Through a lengthy investigation by one of our detectives, in cooperation with ND Parole and Probation, a suspect was arrested for the burglaries. He plead guilty to all charges and was sentenced to prison.

In May, the Criminal Investigations Unit investigated the death of a baby in a south Fargo home. The mother of the child delivered the baby in the apartment of a friend. However, the baby died under suspicious circumstances.

After a lengthy investigation, the mother was charged with murder. The case is still pending prosecution.

In July and August, two serious assaults took place downtown which were allegedly committed by a group of males. One of the assaults resulted in substantial injury to the victim. Initially, officers were given a vague description of the group. Detectives used that information and located security videos from multiple locations.

Still shots from the videos were sent out to area law enforcement agencies and all five members were identified.

One of the males was determined to be a suspect in both assaults. The juvenile male plead guilty to both crimes.

Additional charges related to these cases are still pending.

In September, Gabriel Perez was shot to death outside McDonald's, 905 Main Ave. During the course of the investigation, detectives identified Miguel Cooley, Sr. as the alleged shooter. In cooperation with the US Marshal's Service, the Moorhead Police Department and the Mower County Sheriff's Office (MN) Cooley was located and arrested in Rose Creek, MN and charged with murder.

Also in September, Jakob Dirks was stabbed to death at a local hotel. Dirks had confronted acquaintances at the hotel who had stolen items from him. During the confrontation, Dirks was stabbed and died from his injuries. This was a complicated case that resulted in the conviction of three individuals and a fourth suspect pending trial.

In December, the Fargo Police Department hosted a mock exercise for the Child Abduction Response Team (CART).

This exercise involved many local, state and federal agencies. The intent was to test the group's response readiness to an abduction incident. This was the first time our agency hosted the exercise.

Throughout the year, the Criminal Investigations Unit conducted five undercover operations in cooperation with the ND Human Trafficking Task Force. Four of the operations were conducted as outreach to victims of human trafficking. The fifth, was part of "Guardian Angel" and targeted people seeking sex with underage children. This operation resulted in one arrest.

2018 ANNUAL REPORT | 25

NARCOTICS UNIT I n v e s t i g a t i o n s Di v i s i o n

DEPUTY CHIEF

The Fargo Police Department Narcotics Unit is a specialized unit which consists of six detectives who are supervised by Sergeant Matt Christensen and overseen by Lieutenant Mat Sanders. One of the six detectives is assigned to the Drug Enforcement

T o d d Os mu n d s o n Lieutenant Shannon Ruziska L i e u t e n a n t Ma t S a n d e r s

Administration (DEA) Task Force in Fargo to investigate federal level drug crimes.

The Narcotics Unit utilizes a team approach with the DEA Task Force, the Cass County Drug Task Force and the Lakes to River Task Force (Minnesota) to investigate drug crimes in our region. All of these agencies meet on a weekly basis to share information and further drug investigations, as many cases span multiple

Sergeant Ma t t C h r i s t e n s e n

jurisdictions.

2018 ANNUAL REPORT | 26

NARCOTICS UNIT CONTINUED I n v e s t i g a t i o n s Di v i s i o n In 2018, the Narcotics Unit saw a decrease in the amount of reported overdoses compared to 2017; which continues the downward trend from 2016 when overdoses hit an all-time high in our area. The Fargo Police Department responded to 30 incidents of reported overdoses. Of the reported cases, 11 people died as a result of the overdose. Of these 11 deaths, five were related to opiates, three were related to methamphetamine use, two were a combination of other drugs and/or additional medical issues, and one was undetermined.

The Fargo Police Department’s patrol officers began carrying the opiate reversing drug Naloxone (Narcan) in 2018 and it was used in several instances to save lives. The Narcotics Unit also carries the drug with them on search warrants in case of an accidental exposure during their searches. Of the 30 reported overdose incidents, Naloxone was utilized 18 times.

Of the 30 reported overdose incidents, Naloxone was utilized 18 times.

2018 ANNUAL REPORT | 27

NARCOTICS UNIT CONTINUED I n v e s t i g a t i o n s Di v i s i o n In late 2017 and early 2018, the Narcotics Unit developed information related to an individual who was trafficking methamphetamine and heroin to the Fargo area. The Narcotics Unit shared and corroborated information with the other local narcotics detectives related to this individual. The individual was eventually identified and found to be a dangerous career criminal. A search warrant was granted for their residence in May of 2018. Due to the suspect’s criminal history, the Red River Valley SWAT Team was used to serve the warrant. Once the scene was secure, the Narcotics Unit, with assistance from the DEA Task Force, the Cass County Drug Task Force and the Metro Area Street Crimes Unit, conducted the search of the residence. As a result of the search, methamphetamine, heroin and 11 pounds of marijuana were located. In addition to the drugs, detectives found a S&W MP .556 rifle, two handguns and $4,655 in cash.

In July 2018, the Narcotics Unit and the Metro Street Crimes Unit acted on some information they received relative to suspected drug sales that had occurred at a local hotel. The investigation resulted in a search warrant being served at the hotel room in question. As detectives made entry into the room, the suspect broke out the window screen and jumped from the second story room in an attempt to dispose of the evidence. A short foot chase ensued which resulted in the suspect being apprehended. During this investigation, the detectives were assisted by a group of children who were playing nearby. The children pointed out the suspect who was attempting to run away. The suspect was arrested for multiple charges to include fleeing and drug trafficking.

2018 ANNUAL REPORT | 28

NARCOTICS UNIT CONTINUED I n v e s t i g a t i o n s Di v i s i o n In October 2018, The Narcotics Unit worked in conjunction with the DEA and Cass County Drug Task Force to investigate a suspect who was

2018 stats

bringing methamphetamine from Mexico to western North Dakota and then ultimately to Fargo. By utilizing a team approach , a total of 1 ½

2.25 lbs methamphetamine

pounds of methamphetamine was seized and the suspect was arrested. The suspect is currently in custody and will be prosecuted in

10.9 ounces cocaine

federal court for their activities.

These investigations are great examples of the Fargo Police Narcotics Unit working as a team with the other local agencies to accomplish our mission. The mission of the Narcotics Unit continues to be identifying,

1.25 ounces heroin 18 hits of LSD

investigating and stopping individuals who are trafficking dangerous drugs in and to our community. The Narcotics Unit also recognizes addiction fuels other crimes in our community, to include property crime and assaults. The Narcotics Unit assists patrol officers and detectives assigned to the Property and Personal Crimes Units. The

15.25 lbs marijuana

people we investigate are often involved with cases they are investigating as well, and information sharing between our units is

1.07 ounces marijuana wax

essential for successful prosecution.

10 firearms (one stolen)

4 vehicles seized

$114,175 cash seized

2018 ANNUAL REPORT | 29

METRO AREA STREET CRIMES UNIT I n v e s t i g a t i o n s Di v i s i o n

DEPUTY CHIEF T o d d Os mu n d s o n L i e u t e n a n t Ma t S a n d e r s Lieutenant Shannon Ruziska

The Metro Area Street Crimes Unit (MASCU) is comprised of officers and deputies from Cass and Clay County Sheriff’s Offices, and the West Fargo, Moorhead, and Fargo Police Departments.

The MASCU continued to place pressure on outlaw motorcycle gangs (OMG). We did not see any OMG activity at local bike nights, on motorcycle runs, and very limited presence at the FM Crusaders bike show.

In March 2018, the MASCU investigated a home invasion that involved a firearm where the victim was assaulted with a tire iron.

As a result of the investigation, five suspects were arrested, and the

S e r g e a n t S h a wn G a mr a d t

weapons used in the assault were recovered, including a stolen handgun. The five suspects plead guilty, and most received sentences between three to seven years prison time.

2018 ANNUAL REPORT | 30

METRO AREA STREET CRIMES UNIT CONTINUED I n v e s t i g a t i o n s Di v i s i o n In July 2018, the MASCU served a search warrant in West Fargo. The suspect

2018 STATS 332 arrests

had recently been released on parole from the North Dakota State Penitentiary where he had been serving time from a previous MASCU case that had involved drug trafficking. The suspect was arrested for drug trafficking related offenses again. He plead guilty to the new charges and is

95 confirmed gang

serving three and nine year sentences.

members or known associates

In February 2018, several local gang members, already under investigation by the MASCU, committed a theft of multiple firearms from a local pawnshop. The MASCU officers identified the suspects, served a search warrant at a residence, and the stolen firearms were recovered. The search

61 search warrants

warrant also led to a separate weapons violation investigation. One suspect

served

plead guilty in state court, and the other plead guilty in federal court.

Throughout the year, the MASCU worked in conjunction with the U.S. Marshal's High Plains Fugitive Task Force.

220.78 grams of methamphetamine

In September, the Metro Street Crimes Unit and U.S. Marshals Service High

42 grams of cocaine

Plains Fugitive Task Force worked with the Fargo Police Department and

6.6 grams of heroin

Moorhead Police Department regarding a homicide that occurred in Fargo.

Task Force Officers from both units worked to locate the suspect, and helped ensure no retaliation from the victim’s family would occur. Through

15.33 lbs of marijuana

the unit’s investigation, the suspect was located and arrested near Rochester, MN. After the suspect was arrested, the MASCU assisted the Moorhead and Fargo Police Departments execute a search warrant at the suspect's residence.

41 pills

The MASCU and the U.S. Marshals Service High Plains Fugitive Task Force opened an investigation after receiving a tip that an unregistered sex offender was working at a local business in West Fargo, ND, and was wanted

147 pieces of

out of Tennessee for failure to register as a sex offender. Although he left

paraphernalia

West Fargo, the investigation continued which led to his arrest in Rapid City, SD. He plead guilty to failure to register as a sex offender.

During the month of September 2018, the MASCU and the U.S. Marshals High

$19, 132 in cash

Plains Fugitive Task Force conducted Operation Damage Control. The operation focused on fugitives with suspected gang affiliations, violent offenders, and firearms violations. The operation resulted in 41 arrests, the seizure of one firearm, two stolen vehicles, $8,872, and 149 grams of

14 guns

controlled substances.

2018 ANNUAL REPORT | 31

2018 ANNUAL REPORT | 32

ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES Deputy Chief Joe Anderson Lieutenants Mat Sanders +Travis Stefonowicz Sergeants Tom Morris, Kevin Volrath + Tom Shaw In 2018, the department was awarded several

arrests made, one drug arrest, 35 minor in

grants to include: $7,000 NDDOT Distracted

possession citations issued, two non-traffic

Driving, $10,000 NDDOT Underage Drinking

citations issued, 66 other alcohol arrests (loud

Enforcement, $11,000 NDDOT Safety Belt

party, consuming alcohol in public, etc.) and one

Enforcement, $7,000 NDDOT DUI Marketing

other arrest made in operation of this grant.

Campaign, $20,000 NDDOT Sobriety Checkpoints

Using the DUI enforcement grant, 267 total

and Saturation Patrols, $50,091 Edward Byrne

arrests or citations were issued, 79 of which

Memorial Justice Assistance Grant (used for

were for DUI or APC. Using the Seat belt grant,

overtime), $62,217 2018 State Homeland Security

304 total arrests or citations were issued, 159

Program, and a $32,471 Juvenile Justice and

were for seat belt or child restraint violations.

Delinquency Prevention grant.

Using the Distracted Driving grant, 152 arrests or citations were issued, 51 were for texting or

Using the Underage Drinking Enforcement grant, eight alcohol compliance checks were conducted, 16 server training classes taught, two felony

distracted driving.

The Administrative Services Division is home to the department's social media and public relations team . The team continued to push information to the public and media regarding the department's activities and incidents within the City.

The department added two new social media platforms, SnapChat and Instagram, in order to reach more people in our community. These platforms have allowed the department to share stories and photos of our officers and K9s to help our community connect with our department in a positive way.

The division is also home to the Records Unit, Property Room, Training and Recruiting Unit.

The Records Unit conducted 3,071 fingerprints, and 1,710 criminal background checks in 2018.

The Property Unit took in 8,832 new items for 2,921 cases.

In 2018, the department hired 15 new officers.

The department prides itself in providing frequent and quality training for its officers.

Officers train monthly, rotating between firearms and defensive tactics. In 2018, the department provided approximately 2,000 hours of firearms and defensive tactics training. The department actively recruited candidates throughout the year using the department's social media platforms, and attended several career fairs across the country. The department is dedicated to finding the best candidates who emulate our quality standards: safety, courtesy, empathy and trust.

2018 ANNUAL REPORT | 33

AWARDS

"WHENEVER AN EMPLOYEE PERFORMS THEIR DUTIES IN AN EXEMPLARY MANNER."

difficult task of reviewing each one to decide which ones would be awarded. In 2018, 13 life saving awards, eight police service awards for the police training program, four police service awards for

Throughout the year, officers and

participation on the SWAT team, two

supervisors are able to nominate each

distinguished service medals, one silver

other for recognition for their actions.

star, and five combat cross awards were

Special recognition may be in order

given. Each year one supervisor, police

whenever an employee performs his or

officer, and civilian employee are

her duties in an exemplary manner. In

recognized for their outstanding

2018, the Awards Committee received

service, professionalism, and

several nominations, and had the

contribution to the department.

2018 ANNUAL REPORT | 34

Officer Brad Baer Life Saving Award

Officer Tyler Nord Life Saving Award

Officer Alex Bollman Life Saving Award

Officer Jon Novacek Life Saving Award

Officer Dave Boe Life Saving Award

Officer Taylor Savageau Life Saving Award

Officer Dan Bair Life Saving Award

Officer Mike Clower Life Saving Award

Officer Derek Johnson Life Saving Award

Officer Zach Robinson Life Saving Award

Officer Rob Essler Life Saving Award

Officer Toby Carlsson Life Saving Award

Sergeant Travis Moser Life Saving Award

Officer Justin Nachatilo Police Service Award

Officer Dane Ronning Police Service Award

Officer Dave Boe Police Service Award

Officer Richard Dietz Police Service Award

Sergeant Mike Erbes Police Service Award

Sergeant Joel Erickson Police Service Award

Lieutenant Chris Helmick Police Service Award

Lieutenant Bill Ahlfeldt Police Service Award

Sergeant Travis Moser Police Service Award

Officer Nate Nieman Police Service Award

Officer Amy Kingzett Police Service Award

Officer Richard Dietz Distinguished Service Medal

Officer Terresa Durr Distinguished Service Medal

Officer Matt Moon Silver Star

Officer Cory Luckow Combat Cross

Officer Jacob Rued Combat Cross

Officer Rob Essler Combat Cross

Sergeant Shane Aberle Combat Cross

Sergeant Troy Hannig Combat Cross

Jessica Schindeldecker Civilian of the Year

Officer Dan Bair Police Officer of the Year

Lieutenant Chris Helmick Supervisor of the Year

AWARD DEFINITIONS The Life Saving Award is presented to sworn officers and civilian employees, who distinguish themselves by an act which contributes to the saving of a person's life.

The Police Service Award is presented to sworn officers, who demonstrate exemplary service and dedication to the department by serving as a Police Training Officer or member of the SWAT Team for a minimum of five years.

The Distinguished Service Medal is presented to sworn officers, who distinguish themselves by an act above and beyond the call of duty, in which the circumstances indicate an act which brings acclaim to the officer of the department; or have served in a distinguishable manner for 20 years or more.

The Silver Star is awarded to sworn officers who distinguish themselves by an act above and beyond the call of duty, in which the circumstances indicate an act of bravery or heroism.

The Combat Cross is awarded to sworn officers who distinguish themselves during an encounter with an adversary armed with a deadly weapon, in which the officer's life was directly and significantly threatened.

Supervisor, Police Officer and Civilian of The Year are awarded in recognition for outstanding service, professionalism, and contribution to the department for the preceding year.

2018 ANNUAL REPORT | 36

FUN

FACTS

78,652 gallons

1,344,945 miles

2,000 hours training

1,336 criminal intelligence files

8,832 evidence

3,071 fingerprints

1,710 background checks 2018 ANNUAL REPORT | 37

Chief of Police David E. Todd

Mayor Dr. Tim Mahoney

www.fargopolice.com