2019 Fargo Police Annual Report

2019 annual report

MESSAGE FROM THE CHIEF Welcome to our 2019 Annual Report and thank you for your interest in the Fargo Police Department. We finished the second phase of renovating an acquired building for a new police headquarters, which was the Border States Electric building at 105 25th St. N. and now has become the official Fargo Police Station. We moved the Investigations Division and the Administrative Division into the new location during the first quarter of 2019, and we are now fully operational out of our new station.

We are incredibly grateful to our mayor, city commissioners, city administrators and our community for the opportunity to have a new station that gives us room for our current operations, our partnerships and anticipated future growth.

We had a 3% total increase in crime in 2019, most of it related to property crime (burglaries and theft).

A significant amount of this activity appears to be addiction driven. People are breaking into homes,

going, what we are trying to accomplish and to hold ourselves accountable to those objectives.

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

I am incredibly proud of the men and women at the Fargo Police Department and I am amazed at what they do both inside the building and out in our community. I hope you enjoy our 2019 Annual Report.

agencies.

Currently the Fargo Police Department is authorized to staff 185 sworn officer positions and approximately 25 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 five years in order to catch up with the growth of the community. As we grow, we

DAVID E. TODD

recognize it is important to have and utilize a strategic plan to give us a roadmap of where we are

Chief of Police

Purpose

2019 FARGO POLICE ORGANIZATIONAL

CHART

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

Quality Service Standards Safety | Courtesy | Empathy | Trust

DAVE TODD CHIEF

OF

SHANE ABERLE OPS

POLICE

TODD OSMUNDSON

JOE ANDERSON

ROSS RENNER

DEPUTY

DEPUTY

DEPUTY

CHIEF

ADMINISTRATIVE

SERVICES

CHIEF

INVESTIGATIVE

MAT SANDERS

LIEUTENANT

LIEUTENANT

KEVIN VOLRATH SERGEANT

BILL AHLFELDT Â DISTRICT 2

SHANNON RUZISKA

CHRIS HELMICK

DISTRICT

LIEUTENANT

TOM SHAW

CARLOS NESTLER

SERGEANT

SERGEANT

3

GEORGE VINSON DISTRICT

TOM MORRIS

FIELD

SERVICES

SERVICES

TRAVIS STEFONOWICZ

CHIEF

SERGEANT

1

SHAWN GAMRADT SERGEANT

SERGEANT

JARED CRANE DISTRICT

4

CHRIS NICHTERN SERGEANT

MATT CHRISTENSEN

MARK LYKKEN

MIKE BERNIER

SERGEANT

SERGEANT

MIKE ERBES

JIM VANLITH

SERGEANT

SERGEANT

SERGEANT

JUNELL KRABBENHOFT SERGEANT

COLLIN GNOINSKY

TRAVIS MOSER

SERGEANT

SERGEANT

JOEL ERICKSON

MIKE SANDEN

SERGEANT

SERGEANT

JERROD WAGNER

MATT YSTEBOE

SERGEANT

SERGEANT

TROY HANNIG

BRENT HALVERSON

SERGEANT

SERGEANT

CRISTIE JACOBSEN SERGEANT

OFFICE OF PROFESSIONAL STANDARDS S e r g e a n t

S h a n e

A b e r l e

The Office of Professional Standards investigated 21

The Office of Professional Standards conducted 91

personnel complaints in 2019 involving 19 different

incident reviews of response-to-resistance, officer

officers.

involved crashes, motor vehicle pursuits, and tire

Five sustained complaints due to missed court or

63 response-to-resistance

duty Five complaints for unsafe vehicle operation (four

60 to overcome resistance 3 dispatch wounded animals

sustained, one closed) Four complaints for conduct unbecoming of an officer (three sustained, one closed) Two sustained complaints for preventable crashes One sustained complaint for Improper Firearms

63 within policy 25 crashes 15 preventable (2 complaints) 10 non-preventable 2 tire deflation device uses

Handling (off-duty) One sustained complaint for work performance One not sustained complaint for release of information

deflation device deployments.

1 within policy 1 pending review 1 pursuit pending review

safety | Courtesty | Empathy | trust

CRIME STATISTICS The statistics below meet the requirement of the Uniform

93,590

12,091

Calls for Service

Total Offenses

4% increase

3% increase

6,492

569

Arrests

DUI Arrests

2% decrease

15% decrease

13,107

3,972

Traffic Citations

Crashes

2% decrease

7% decrease

Crime Reports (UCR) of the Federal Bureau of Investigations.

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 36 Part I crimes per 1,000 people, based on the U.S. Census Bureau 2018 population estimate of Fargo of 122,359.

4,398 total Part I crimes were reported (1% increase from 2018) 7,693 total Part II crimes were reported (3% increase from 2018)

OFFENSES REPORTED

FIELD SERVICES DIVISION Deputy

Chief

Ross

Renner

93,590

6,492

13,107

Patrol officers responded to

Patrol officers made 6,492 arrests,

Patrol officers issued 13,107 traffic

93,590 calls for service, a 4%

a 2% decrease from 2018, 6,645

citations, down 2% from 2018,

increase from 2018, and 3,972

arrests. Officers made 569 DUI

13,394 traffic citations.

traffic crashes

down 7% from

2018.

arrests, down 2% from 2018, 668 DUI arrests.

PATROL The Field Services Division is comprised of patrol officers and specialty positions such as Community Trust Officers, Cultural Liaison Officer, School Resource Officers, Downtown Resource Officers, Truck Regulatory Officer, Park Officer, the K9 Unit, and Community Service Officers.

The City of Fargo is patrolled by officers who are assigned an area of responsibility, beats, for the year. This enables officers to create engaging relationships with businesses and community members in their beats while allowing familiarity with the area they patrol. The City is divided into four districts, each district with three beats except district four which has four beats due to its size and call load. A lieutenant oversees each district, and works with the beat supervisors to create plans to combat crime trends in order to create a positive quality of life for the residents of Fargo.

District 1, the North District, includes the downtown area. District 1 brings unique public safety challenges in part to the high density of the downtown area where people live, work and visit. The downtown area hosts several public events, including the annual street fair and parades. The Downtown Resource Officers, along with supervisors focus on our valued partnerships with the Downtown Community Partnership, Business Improvement District, Downtown Neighborhood Association and many other groups including bar owners and service providers to ensure efficient public safety.

The Downtown Resource Officers and beat officers spent a great deal of time walking up and down Broadway and the downtown area in an effort to provide high visibility and engage with the public to ensure a feeling of safety. District 1 does have a higher homeless population than other areas of the City. Serving this population is an important part of what we do so we have partnered with Homeless health and the FM Coalition to end Homelessness. Unfortunately, some individuals choose to break the law and engage in criminal behavior such as panhandling and consuming alcohol in public.

This behavior makes some people feel uncomfortable and may deter them from visiting the downtown area which we do not want. The goal of the officers is to be visible and deter this type of behavior in order to make downtown Fargo an area people of all ages feel comfortable to visit, live and work.

In other areas of the district, we noticed some burglaries, many of these burglaries were to storage units. We used various forms of technology to assist with combating and investigating these crimes, and saw some success as we solved many of those cases.

District 2, or the Central District, is known for its historical neighborhoods, full of character and ethnically diverse families, beautiful parks and a variety of interesting businesses. In 2019, the district experienced a decrease in property crimes such as general thefts, unlawful vehicle entries and criminal mischief, while crimes such as burglaries and vehicle thefts increased. The increase in burglaries and motor vehicles can be attributed to offenders taking advantage of opportunities such as unlocked or open garage doors and vehicles, and in very few cases unlocked or unsecured dwellings. In response to these crimes, beat officers focused their patrol efforts in these areas and worked diligently to identify and disrupt active criminals working in these areas by effecting arrests.

The officers also identified addresses within the district known to be housing of active criminals and increased their police activity in these areas, which stopped or limited criminal activity.

Throughout the year, officers teamed up with property owners and managers to clear overgrowth and physical barriers which can allow concealment of illegal activities within neighborhoods and business areas. The officers also provided education to property owners and managers on ways to make their properties safer not only for them but others in the area. These partnerships allowed open communication between police and the community creating more efficient community policing.

District 3, also known as the South District, experienced a significant increase in theft of motor vehicles (33%). The common factor in the majority of these reports was the vehicle was left unlocked with the keys in it. Another challenge for the district in 2019 was a rise in crime in the hotel and motel district on beat 31, specifically increases in theft of motor vehicles, unlawful entry to vehicles and theft of property. Officers attended training on hotel interdiction tactics, conducted targeted enforcement actions and increased officer presence on these properties. Officers experienced the most success when they stopped and talked to people in areas of increased crime, known as police contacts.

Police contacts allow officers to gather information from people and identify possible criminal suspects.

District 4, also known as the West District, is the largest district in Fargo and consists of many residential, commercial and retail properties. In 2019, officers responded to 16,973 calls for service, a 9% increase. This came as no surprise considering the expanding population and vehicle traffic in District 4. Even though calls for service increased in 2019, property crimes decreased. Officers focused on specific persons committing crimes, building relationships with property owners and proactive policing which helped contribute to the decrease in property crime. On-going efforts with apartment owners to change the locking mechanisms on garages greatly affected the reduction of garage burglaries in the district.

The department follows an Intelligence Led Policing (ILP) model to combat crime. This model influences policing efforts primarily on persons driving crime. District 4 commander Lt. Jared Crane attributes his officers success in reducing crime to the partnership they have with specialized ILP detectives, and major crimes detectives.

DOWNTOWN RESOURCE OFFICERS The Department has two Downtown Resource Officers assigned to provide enhanced police services to the downtown area. Their job is to promote a revitalized, safe area for people to live, work and visit.

2019 was a year of growth and redevelopment as one

of the largest construction projects, Block 9, started to ascend in the heart of downtown. Even with multiple construction projects in the downtown area, people were not deterred from visiting the Broadway and Roberts St. corridor. The officers focused primarily on visibility with foot patrol in the most congested areas. The Downtown Resource Officers logged over 500 hours of foot patrol between June and October.

Downtown Resource Officer Scott Normandin completed a five year tour as the evening shift officer. DRO Normandin was a staple in safety planning for events in the downtown area. DRO Normandin spent time coaching and mentoring his replacement, Officer Dean Jordheim, to ensure a seamless transition when he rotates out in January 2020.

Officer White continued her work with the homeless community in the downtown area , and received an award from the FM Coalition to End Homelessness as the Outstanding Service Provider-Individual. Officer White was selected for this award as she was someone who contributed significantly to the Coalition's mission of working in partnership to achieve permanent solutions to prevent and end homelessness.

Officer White also continued

to work with the Community Service Program along with Gladys Ray Shelter where they provide opportunities for individuals to work off their fines. Since the program started in 2016, almost $40,000 in fines have been worked off.

FARGO UNITED This year, the team hosted two Fargo United events, collaborating with the West Fargo Police Department for one event . Even though weather caused us to reschedule our home event, we welcomed over 400 community members to Ed Clapp Elementary School with a fun evening of prizes, games and entertainment by Kaboose and Officer Bloom

"IT'S TIME" SCHOOL ASSEMBLIES The team hosted nine school

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT TEAM Lieutenant

William

Ahlfeldt

assemblies during October and November at Fargo Public Schools, Oak Grove and Shanley reaching over 7,500 students. The assemblies

The department's Community Engagement Team consists of four officers, a

covered mental health awareness

sergeant and a lieutenant. The team's mission is to build trust between

and encouraged youth to speak out

police and the community and provide positive influences to youth in our

to someone they trust if they are

community. The Cultural Liaison Officer works to build trust and create

facing a difficult time. Performers

open communication between the department and cultural communities of

DPB and V-Rose helped the officers deliver their message via music and

Fargo.

encouraging words.

The department held its second annual Fargo Police Summer Camp at Fargo South High School in collaboration with Jefferson Elementary, Ed Clapp Elementary, Youthworks, and Cass County Juvenile Court. The camp provided several local boys and girls daily activities graciously sponsored

by TNT Kid's Fitness, swimming lessons by Sammons Financial Group, Rap Club, basketball sessions by Inspired Athletics Basketball academy, reading, and crafts.

Several campers returned from 2018 giving staff

OUTDOOR PROGRAM Officer Carlson held the

another opportunity to strengthen relationships and build new ones. These

department's first Outdoor Program

relationships allow school staff to work more effectively with these kids

for 12 youth in our community

during the school year. When asked what her favorite part of camp was,

including activities such as hiking,

Jefferson Elementary Positive Behavior Technician Taryn Thompson said, "I

camping, fishing, hunter's safety, and

get to actually interact and do things with them instead of try to get them

art. Officer Carlson was inspired to

to sit in a seat all day long." For the second year in a row, staff saw camp

create this program due to his

participants return to school in the fall with noticeably fewer behavior

passion for the outdoors.

challenges than the average student in their caseload.

SWIMMING LESSONS The team partnered with Sammons Financial, Concordia College, the YMCA, Family Wellness, and Fargo Parks to provide survival swimming lessons to 96 New American youth.

UNITY MURAL Earlier this spring, Officer Bloom had an idea to have a mural painted in our city to reflect the strength and relationships law enforcement has with the youth in our community, and thought of no better place than on the building where the Community Trust Officers will be soon working out of. Through his passion to build a positive relationship between youth and the police department, Officer Bloom has found art and hip-hop helps bridge those connections. “The kids relate to music and hip-hop culture,” says Bloom, “I see it as a tool to engage kids and make our whole community better. Plus, the mural will be a lasting reminder of how our community works together.” Alex Lopez, a Miami-based artist, painted the mural with funds from the Kresge Grant awarded to the City of Fargo.

K9 UNIT Lieutenant

George

Vinson

2019 was the busiest year on record for the department's canine unit. The unit has three dual purpose patrol and narcotic detection dogs and one single purpose narcotics detection dog. The unit was deployed 831 times, a 17.5% increase from 2018. Detective Witte and K9 Kilo placed 3rd overall in the UPSCA Narcotics certification, Officer Cernik and K9 Uno won the Rookie Dog Award, and Sgt. Bollman and K9 Blue ranked 1st place in the room search category.

K9 FALCO Officer Cochran and K9 Falco were deployed 161 times. The team conducted a door sniff with an alert yielding 480 grams of marijuana and $11,620 seized; a package lineup for USPS with an alert yielding 13 grams of heroin; a vehicle deployment for patrol with an alert yielding 36 grams of methamphetamine, 3.5 grams of marijuana, and $2,000 seized; and a door sniff with an alert yielding two

K9 UNO

K9 BLUE

ounces of methamphetamine, a small amount of heroin, and drug paraphernalia.

Officer Cernik and K9 Uno were

Sgt. Bollman and K9 Blue were

deployed 331 times. They assisted

deployed 206 times. The team was

patrol on a traffic stop where the

requested by the Narcotics Unit to

driver was displaying behaviors

assist at an address in Fargo where he

consistent with narcotic use. K9 Uno

alerted to an apartment yielding THC

alerted to the vehicle where 30 grams

cartridges, marijuana, cocaine, a

of cocaine, 381.1 grams of raw

handgun, and a seizure of $7,351. K9

marijuana, 10 grams of marijuana wax,

Blue again assisted the Narcotics unit

$3,253 and a handgun. He also

where he alerted to an apartment

alerted on a package at the USPS that

where 2 lbs of marijuana,

contained 150 grams of

methamphetamine and approximately

methamphetamine hidden inside a

$20,000 was seized. On night shift, K9

large tub of protein powder. K9 Uno

Blue was requested on a traffic stop

also alerted on a door sniff resulting in

where he alerted to 15.7 grams of

the seizure of 75 grams of

methamphetamine, drug

Det. Witte and K9 Kilo were deployed

methamphetamine, 20 grams of

paraphernalia and $3,000 was seized.

135 times.

marijuana packaged for sale and $1,590.

K9 KILO K9 Kilo alerted on a

package at Fed Ex which led to the discovery of 2 ounces of methamphetamine and was part of a larger investigation leading to federal indictments. K9 Kilo also assisted in the

Marty McFly spent an afternoon with our Community Service Officers, but unfortunately isn't a full time police dog for us (yet).

location of 1,360 grams of methamphetamine, 846.5 grams of marijuana, over 13 grams of heroin, and seized $20,710.

TRUCK REGULATORY OFFICER Maybe you've seen this truck around town, especially in areas of heavy construction? The department's Truck Regulatory Officer Matt Moon works in cooperation with the City of Fargo Public Works department to reduce and prevent damage caused to city streets by overweight trucks and heavy equipment. During the construction season, this officer monitors work sites to make sure truck loads are in compliance with weight restrictions. The officer also monitors passenger vehicle speeds in construction zones and assists with traffic control when large equipment must move out of the work zone and into lanes of travel. The officer also attends construction planning meetings and responds to citizen complaints.

In 2019, Officer Moon issued 427 traffic citations, conducted 85 weigh ups with 41 overweight vehicles for a total of 463,580 pounds, resulting in $57,655 in City fines. Officer Moon performed 85 escorts, conducted 6 educational sessions on weight restrictions and traffic laws, and issued 4,200 permits for a total of $4,428,805 City fines.

Officer Moon worked closely with the City's Engineering department's online permitting system by assisting many local businesses enroll and understand the program.

Officer Moon also assisted with the AirSho, the Fargo Marathon, public events (Safety Safari pictured to the left), and multiple house moves.

PARK OFFICER 2019 was the second year for the department's Park Officer position, which is a partnership with Fargo Parks. Officer Marvig continued to put a strong focus on patrolling the parks and their events during the busy summer months. Officer Marvig credits input by Fargo Parks staff and the public as they are the eyes and ears which direct his patrols in order to be effective in providing safe parks for our community to visit. In 2019, he responded to or created 1,025 calls for service. Officer Marvig was tasked to assist the Fargo Park District on emergency preparedness, CPR/AED education, ordinance revision, motorcycle patrol and the Urban Wildlife Management Program. In December, the Park District ordered an all-electric motorcycle with a grant which will provide Officer Marvig with unique patrol capabilities in the parks.

SCHOOL RESOURCE OFFICERS Lieutenant

George

Vinson

School based policing places law enforcement officers into a school setting in order to educate, counsel and protect our school communities. The goal of an SRO is to provide a safe learning environment in our schools, valuable resources to school staff, foster a positive relationship with our community's youth, and develop strategies to resolve problems affecting our youth with the objective of protecting all children so they can reach their fullest potential. The department has seven school resource officers, one in each middle and high school.

L to R: Lt. George Vinson, Officers Taylor Savageau, Nick Kjonaas,

Jason Abel, Kyle Ness, Troy Nielsen, Matt Siders, Derek Johnson, Sgt. Kevin Pallas, and FPS Mackenzie

McCormick

In October, five or our SROs attended the quarterly North Dakota Association of School Resource Officers board meeting in Bismarck, ND to establish communication and partnerships with other North Dakota school resource officers.

SRO Kyle Ness (Woodrow Wilson) is a mentor for the Man University Program (ManUP) which is a program that provides mentorship, fellowship, networking and community outreach. The program targets diverse groups of adolescent males regardless of race, color, creed, social-economic status, or academic status.

Pictured here is a photo from when Dr. Gandhi (Fargo Public Schools Superintendant) spoke to the group.

L to R: Officers Jason Abel (Fargo North), Derek Johnson (Davies), Troy Nielsen (Fargo South), Nick Kjonaas (Discovery), and Matt Siders (Carl Ben Eielson)

Vaping and electronic tobacco products have become a health concern for students across the country and here in our community. The department put together a video featuring SROs Johnson and Siders and Fargo Cass Public Health to highlight what they have seen and are seeing in their middle and high schools. Our goal was to educate parents and guardians on what they're children could be doing or exposed to and what to look for.

SRO Johnson also talked about these issues on the ND Today Show, KFGO radio and WDAY radio.

SROs Johnson, Nielsen and Abel teamed up with local students to help raise awareness to mental health, where they encourage students to seek help for themselves or someone they know who may be struggling.

fargo's finest

CRIMINAL INVESTIGATIONS UNIT Deputy

Chief

Joe

Anderson

The Investigations Unit is made up of 17 detectives, 3 sergeants and 1 lieutenant. Detectives are split up into three teams: Adult Violent Crimes, Property Crimes and Crimes Against Children. In addition, one detective is assigned to register and track sex offenders in the City, and one detective deals with human trafficking. Over the course of 2019, the three teams investigated over 1,400 criminal cases.

The Unit has a close working partnership with several

local agencies, including the ND Bureau of Criminal Investigation, Cass County State's Attorney’s Office, Cass County Social Services, US Department of Homeland Security, Federal Bureau of Investigation, Rape and Abuse Crisis Center, and many others. The Investigations Unit relies on its many community partners to help them accomplish their mission. Investigations detectives have specialized training in many areas, including interview and interrogation, crime scene mapping, blood spatter, arson investigation, cell phone and computer forensics, and shooting reconstruction. These skills are crucial when piecing together criminal cases for prosecution.

The Adult Violent Crimes (AVC) team had a busy year with roughly 300 cases ranging from simple assaults to homicides. The detectives on this team are some of the most experienced, but they also deal with some of the most heinous crimes in Fargo. In 2019, detectives investigated five homicides including the murder-suicide of an elderly couple in south Fargo in January; the death of a memory care patient after being assaulted by another patient in March; the shooting death of Jay Halvorson in June; the murder of Denise Anderson in August; the vehicular homicide of 6-year-old Branden Devine in September; and the murder of Duane Darling in November.

Several members of our Investigations Team worked on the case involving Brenda Kartes. Brenda walked away from Centre Inc. in July 2018 and was later reported missing.

Over the course of several months, detectives followed up on several leads and conducted several interviews trying to determine what happened to Brenda. In August 2019, Brenda’s skeletal remains were found near a cemetery in south Fargo. The circumstances surrounding her death were suspicious. Detectives continue to actively work this case, and are requesting information from those in our community who may have information surrounding the death of Brenda to come forward.

The Crimes Against Children (CAC) Team saw the largest increase in cases in 2019. Detectives investigated over 300 cases involving sexual and physical abuse of children, child pornography, human trafficking and runaway teens. These cases are especially stressful and trying because they involve children and require special interviewing techniques. Detectives worked very closely with social services and the Red River Child Advocacy Center to investigate these crimes during the year. In February, detectives arrested Todd Meyer for sexually abusing two young girls over the course of 6 years. During a forensic interview of the victims, detectives determined that the girls were being abused by Meyer and took quick action to get them out of the situation. During an interview with Meyer, he confessed to abusing the girls several times and was arrested. A high level of emotional trauma was inflicted on the two girls, and getting Meyer in jail saved them from additional abuse. In November, Meyer was sentenced to 40 years in prison after pleading guilty to multiple felonies.

The Property team had the highest workload of the three Investigations teams in 2019. The Property Team investigated close to 700 cases ranging from simple thefts to complex financial crimes. Many of these crimes stemmed from situations where property was not locked up or secured. Detectives spent time analyzing cases and connecting suspects who committed crime sprees in the City, often fueled by addiction. Working closely with patrol officers, as well as officers from other agencies, the Property Team had a very high closure rate during the year. Many of these cases took considerable time to solve because they required piecing together evidence from many incidents to identify a suspect.

NARCOTICS UNIT Deputy

Chief

Joe

Anderson

The Fargo Police Department Narcotics Unit is a specialized unit within the Investigations Division tasked with investigating drug crimes in our community. The team is made up of six detectives, a sergeant, and a lieutenant. One of the six detectives is assigned to the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Task Force in Fargo to investigate federal level drug crimes.

The Narcotics Unit works in conjunction with many local agencies in an effort to accomplish their mission of combating illegal narcotics trafficking

in the community.

The main focus is heroin and methamphetamine trafficking interruption, as these have shown to be

some of the most dangerous and prevalent drugs in the community. The unit works closely with the Minnesota Lakes to River Task Force, the DEA, the ATF, the United States Postal Service, Parole and Probation and Cass County Social Services. The Cass County Drug Task Force has also been a close partner with the Narcotics Unit. In late 2019, the Task Force moved into the new Fargo Police Department to facilitate working as a larger more cohesive team. The Cass County Drug Task Force consists of detectives from the ND Bureau of Criminal Investigation, West Fargo Police Department, Cass County Sheriff’s Office and the ND Air National Guard Counter Drug Unit. The overdose numbers in 2019 remained consistent with 2018. The Fargo Police Department responded to 34 incidents of overdoses involving 36 victims and resulting in 10 deaths. Narcan was administered on scene during 21 of those incidents. Seven deaths were attributed to opiates, one was attributed to methamphetamine and three are still pending autopsy and toxicology results.

The Narcotics Unit takes an active role in assisting patrol and conducting follow up investigation into these incidents. The goal is to learn who supplied the illegal substances that led to the death of the victim, and present a solid case to prosecutors in an effort to hold those individuals responsible when appropriate. Also, as a result of those investigations, the Narcotics Unit works to identify, target and gather evidence to help with a successful prosecution of individuals bringing illegal substances to our community.

CASE HIGHLIGHTS In January, an investigation was initiated into an individual who was selling heroin in both Fargo and Moorhead. During the course of this investigation, multiple search warrants were done at residences in both Fargo and Moorhead and 110 grams of heroin was seized. The Fargo Narcotics Unit worked hand-in-hand with the Lakes to River Task Force in Moorhead to bring this case to a conclusion. The suspect was arrested and sentenced to three years in Cass County, ND and will then face charges in Clay County, MN for his role in distributing heroin in the Fargo-Moorhead area.

In July, an individual was identified who was trafficking cocaine in the Fargo-Moorhead area. The Narcotics Unit and DEA worked with the Lakes to River Task Force to investigate the information. As a result of the investigation, over ten ounces of cocaine was seized as well as cash and firearms. The suspect was arrested and sentenced to over six years in prison for distributing cocaine in the community.

In October, the Narcotics Unit received information that an individual, known to be a heroin dealer, was making their way to Fargo on a bus. They learned the person had an open arrest warrant and responded to attempt to locate and arrest them. Detectives were able to locate the individual who provided a false name. They were eventually arrested and when they were brought to the jail and searched, over an ounce of heroin was located.

In November, Fargo patrol officers noticed suspicious activity at a house in Fargo. Patrol officers indicated some of the behavior they were observing was indicative of illegal narcotics activity. Patrol officers focused on the residence and attempted to identify individuals coming and going. The Narcotics Unit provided assistance and eventually a search warrant was authorized for the residence. A search of the residence confirmed the patrol officers’ suspicions with regards to illegal drug activity. Both methamphetamine and marijuana were located in the house, along with various items of paraphernalia. In addition to the illegal drugs, over $12,000 of stolen property was also recovered. This was an excellent example of a team effort by patrol, the Narcotics Unit and the Property Crimes Unit.

The Narcotics Unit also conducts various presentations related to drug use and abuse in our area. In 2019, the Narcotics Unit provided training to several different rental property companies, schools, businesses, medical professionals and non-profit organizations. The Narcotics Unit also trains throughout the year to stay proficient on search warrant tactics, firearms training, investigative methods and working seamlessly with the other local agencies’ narcotics detectives.

Seized Drugs 11.4 lbs of marijuana 6.7 lbs of methamphetamine

68 Search Warrants

5.7 oz of heroin

114 City/State Cases

2.68 oz of cocaine

28 Patrol Initiated Investigations

1.7 oz of marijuana wax 1 oz of marijuana oil

6 seized firearms

6 g of mushrooms 386 hits of LSD 290 marijuana vape cartridges

$91,149 seized

METRO STREET CRIMES UNIT Deputy

Chief

Joe

Anderson

The Metro Street Crimes Unit (SCU) is comprised of officers and deputies from Cass and Clay County Sheriff's Offices, and the West

ARRESTS

Fargo, Moorhead, and Fargo Police Department's. In January, the SCU 60 confirmed

opened an investigation into a suspected gang member from Florida in the area. Fargo patrol intelligence detectives, and SCU were able to

gang members or known associates

identify the individual's residence and vehicle. It was determined he was dealing large amounts of marijuana and in possession of a firearm. The

180 non-gang 41 assisted

Red River Valley SWAT assisted with a search warrant, resulting in charges. Later, an arrest warrant for failing the 24/7 program was issued. The individual fled back to Florida where he was arrested for a Florida homicide he committed after fleeing the FM area.

WARRANTS 90 body-only, phone, GPS

The SCU was monitoring a confirmed gang member on federal probation and were able to provide a federal judge with proof of

tracking, residential, and DNA

several probation violations committed by the individual. The judge revoked his probation and sent him back to prison for 13 months, followed by 12 months of supervised probation.

GANG MEMBER CLASSIFICATION

The SCU, along with the U.S. Marshals Service High Plains Fugitive Task 94 confirmed

Force worked together on a homicide that occurred in Fargo, monitoring several different locations the suspect was thought to be.

Through teamwork with Fargo Police detectives, and patrol, the

SEIZURES

suspect's location was identified and he was arrested without incident.

2.8 lbs of methamphetamine 15.5 g of cocaine

The SCU and U.S. Marshals Service also worked together on an arrest warrant for a confirmed gang member. During the investigation, the suspect fled in a motor vehicle, and several weeks later the individual was arrested with 13 grams of heroin and 4 grams of methamphetamine

53 g of heroin 886 pills 3.83 lbs of marijuana 165 pieces of drug paraphernalia 47 g THC

on him.

Throughout the year the SCU worked along with state, local, and

17 guns/dangerous weapons

federal agencies, focused on several individuals believed to be responsible for violent crimes in the FM area such as strong-armed robberies, shots fired, attempted homicides, and drug and gun sales.

Many of these investigations continue to be on-going in 2020.

$15,136

SWAT TEAM Commander William Ahlfeldt

HIGH RISK APPREHENSION

The Red River Valley Special Weapons and Tactics Team is a highly trained group of law enforcement officers from the Fargo, West Fargo, Moorhead, NDSU Police Departments and Clay and Cass County Sheriff's Offices, and medics from FM Ambulance and

The arrest or apprehension of an

Sanford Lifeflight. The Team responds to high risk incidents in the

armed or potentially armed suspect

region and includes a Tactical Unit which includes tactical medics

where the likelihood of armed

and a sniper element, a Negotiations Unit, and a Bomb Unit.

resistance is high

TACTICAL UNIT The Tactical Unit within the SWAT Team umbrella is utilized to support the member agencies with a tactical response to critical incidents, which include: hostage situations, barricade situations, active shooter situations, high risk apprehension, high risk search warrants or personal protection. The SWAT Tactical Unit was called on 15 times in 2019 for a variety of these situations. During four of those incidents, the situation was resolved prior to the team arriving on scene.

SWAT CONTINUED

In September, the responded to a barricaded individual in Fargo, ND who patrol officers had made contact with regarding a disturbance. The suspect fled from officers and it was believed went into a residence where two children were present. Officer also had information the suspect had a gun.

The suspect also had a violent criminal history. The SWAT Team made attempts to contact the suspect to get them to surrender but were unsuccessful. Eventually the SWAT Team made entry to the residence and located the children but the suspect had gotten away prior to their arrival. It is believed the suspect left before the patrol officers had set their perimeter on the location.

HIGHLIGHTS In February, they assisted the Metro Area Street Crimes Unit by serving a high-risk search warrant at a residence in Fargo, ND of someone with a violent criminal history. The scene was secured and all parties were detained safely without incident. No injuries were reported.

In March, the assisted the Fargo Police Narcotics Unit by serving a high-risk search warrant at a residence in Fargo, ND. Narcotics Detectives received information a robbery suspect who had firearms and a violent criminal history was staying at the residence. The SWAT Team was utilized to enhance the safety for all parties involved. The suspects were taken into custody safely with no injuries. The residence was then turned over to the Narcotics Unit to conduct the search.

In April, they responded to Moorhead, MN for a barricaded individual who had allegedly assaulted a female and made threats against her life with a firearm. Attempts were made to contact the suspect via loudspeaker to surrender, but were unsuccessful. A chemical irritant was introduced into the residence to further attempt to cause the suspect to surrender. A short time afterwards, the suspect contacted police and said he wanted to come out. The suspect was given commands of how to surrender safely and he did so shortly thereafter. No injuries were sustained to the suspect or law enforcement.

In October, they assisted the Metro Areas Street Crimes Unit with serving a high-risk search warrant in Fargo, ND involving suspects believed to be involved in gang activity. The suspects were also believed to

In July, they assisted the Metro Area Street Crimes Unit with serving a highrisk search warrant in Fargo, ND related to an individual who had a violent criminal history and access to firearms. The search warrant was served without incident and all suspects were detained. No injuries were reported. They also assisted the Lakes to River Task Force with serving a high-risk search warrant in Moorhead, MN involving an individual who had a violent criminal history to include a drive-by shooting. The search warrant was in a hotel room, so the SWAT team utilized a “small team callout” instead of utilizing the whole team. All suspects were detained safely and uninjured.

have several firearms in the residence as well as narcotics. One suspect was located in the residence and detained safely. No injuries were reported. Also in October, they assisted the Lakes to River Task Force with serving a high-risk search warrant in Moorhead, MN. The suspects related to the investigation were known to have firearms in the residence as well as illegal narcotics.

The suspects were taken into custody safely, although during entry one of the suspects

SWAT CONTINUED

was initially non-compliant.

After receiving several verbal

Thomas. The show was aired on ABC

commands from team members, they then were cooperative. No

networks in North Dakota, South Dakota,

injuries were reported.

Minnesota, Montana, and Canada.

In November, they assisted the Metro Area Street Crimes Unit with

NEGOTIATIONS UNIT

serving a high-risk search warrant in Fargo, ND. The suspects related to the investigation were believed to be dealing illegal narcotics and were in possession of several firearms. Several of

The Negotiations Unit is utilized in

the suspects also had violent criminal history. The SWAT Team

conjunction with the Tactical Team to try

served the warrant without incident and the suspects present were

and bring peaceful resolutions to High

detained without incident. No injuries were reported. Also in

Risk/Critical Incidents, through professional

November, they assisted the Cass County Drug Task Force with

dialogue, with those involved. The

serving a high-risk search warrant in Fargo, ND. The suspects

Negotiators are highly trained in effective

involved in the investigation were believed to be dealing narcotics

communication and listening techniques.

and had violent criminal history, to include assaults on law

The Law Enforcement Officers on the Team

enforcement officers. The warrant was served safely and several

pride themselves on their professionalism

suspects were detained. No injuries were reported.

and compassion for the individuals they deal with. The job of a SWAT Negotiator can be extremely stressful as the Negotiators are tasked with bringing a sense of calm and understanding to often very chaotic situations. The Negotiation Team often responds with SWAT, and when deployed in a complimentary function, each team works towards a common overall goal. A negotiator is typically present in the command post during SWAT search warrant service as a contingency. The Red River Valley SWAT Negotiations Unit is comprised of ten (10) Negotiators which consists of: 9 officers and 1 sergeant.

The Fargo Police Department currently has three (3) members assigned to the Negotiations Unit. The Negotiations Unit The Team also makes a point to attend several community

trains one (1) day per month and attends

engagement events, and present to local organizations about what

joint trainings several times per year. Red

the SWAT Team does for the community. In 2019, the SWAT Team

River Valley SWAT Negotiators also

participated in the Special Olympics Polar Plunge, the Fargo

participate in regional training conferences

Holiday Lights Parade, the Fargo Marathon Friday Night 5k, Night to

as both attendees and presenters. New

Unit activities, and the Fargo Police Community Picnic. Members of

negotiators must attend a 40-hour

the team also provided many group tours of SWAT headquarters,

approved course covering contemporary

and group SWAT presentations to local college criminal justice

negotiation concepts before becoming a

clubs, police citizen’s academies, and Boy Scouts.

fully operational member of the team. The Negotiations Unit responded to (13) calls for

In July the SWAT Team’s Armored Rescue Vehicle, known as the “Bearcat” was featured on the tv show “Rides” hosted by Jay

service in 2019.

SWAT CONTINUED

BOMB UNIT The Bomb Unit is utilized for assisting the community and local law enforcement agencies in the education, location and disposal of all energetic materials. The Bomb Unit is often utilized with the Tactical Unit and Negotiations Unit on large-scale events where there could be a potential for dangerous materials or explosives.

The Bomb Unit also has different types of technology that can assist the other units to include x-ray machines and bomb robots

capable of sending real time video and audio to the rest of the team. The Bomb Unit also assists with the Tactical Unit response to many events. In 2019, The Red River Valley Regional Bomb Squad responded to 34 various situations. The team was sent on: 9 calls of suspicious packages or hoaxes; 6 calls to pick up old ammunition and dispose of it; 10 calls for an explosive device or powder; and 9 calls to assist the Tactical Team.

The Tactical Team, Negotiations Team and Bomb Squad continue to work to find ways to improve their capabilities and work together to bring any call they may be sent on to a safe resolution. While the FargoMoorhead community continues to be a safe place to live and work, the Red River Valley SWAT Team strives to be ready for any situation they may encounter, so they can best serve the citizens of Fargo-Moorhead and Cass and Clay Counties.

ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES Deputy Chief Todd Osmundson

EVIDENCE + PROPERTY

GRANTS + BUDGET

T

he evidence and property unit is managed by the Evidence

I

and Property Manager and Assistant. They took in 9,677 pieces of

n 2019, the department was awarded several grants

property and evidence (a 9.5% increase from 2018), and disposed

to include: $8k

of/returned 8,938 pieces of property.

North Dakota Department of

In October, the

Administrative Team moved approximately 15k pieces of evidence

Transportation grant for distracted driving

and property from our old to new headquarters after several hours

enforcement; $10k North Dakota

of strategic planning. The team also responded to three major

Department of Transportation grant for

crime scenes where they processed collected evidence on scene.

underage drinking enforcement; $12k North Dakota Department of Transportation grant for safety belt enforcement; $7k North Dakota Department of Transportation grant for DUI marketing prevention campaign; $20k North Dakota Department of Transportation grant for impaired driving enforcement; $50,677 Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Program for quality of life projects; $37,920 State Homeland Security Program used for respirators, canisters and tactical medical kits for our officers; and $32k Reducing Ethnic Disparities in the Criminal Justice system grant which funded programming for 105 at-risk minority youth. The programming included basketball camps, boxing and self defense classes facilitated by experts in their fields with officers present to help teach and mentor

TRAINING

youth in self-discipline, positive relationship building, and civil leadership.

Officers provided 45 server training classes to approximately 1,800 servers; issued 17 minor in possession, 11 minor in consumption, 10 other alcohol citations and 6 other drug arrests operating under the underage drinking enforcement grant. (continued on next page)

T

he training unit consists of a sergeant

a half hour of YWCA victim rights training, a half

and one officer. The group facilitates monthly in-

hour of employee health training, 2 hours of K9

service training to officers, and 14 external

tactics refresher training, and 2 hours of crowd

presentations.

management refresher training for a total of 21

In 2019, each officer received 4

hours of firearms training, 3 hours of defensive

hours per officer, equaling 6,847.75 hours for the

tactics training, 4 hours of mental health first aid

department.

training, 1.5 hours of Detox protocols training, 1.5 hours of room clearing and active killer response

The department trained 15 new hire officers in

training, 1 hour of felony traffic stops training, 1

2019 which includes new hire training and a 18

hours of tactical combat casualty care training,

week (minimum) police training program.

GRANTS + BUDGET CONTINUED Officers conducted several periods of DUI enforcement and issued or made 321 total arrests or citations, 53 of which were DUI or APC.

Under the safety belt grant, officers issued or made 305 total arrests or citations, 120 of which were for seat belt of child restraint violations.

Using the distracted driving grant, 171 total arrests or citations were issued, 83 of which were for distracted driving.

The department used the DUI marketing grant to purchase and place a new DUI PSA in collaboartion with Video Arts and Blind Joe.

RECORDS The Records unit consists of 9 Police Support Specialists who produce, maintain, and manage reports, background checks, and provide fingerprinting services to the public. In 2019, the unit completed 2, 048 background checks and 3,338 fingerprints.Â

RECRUITING The department has one officer who focuses primarily on the recruiting and hiring process.

Officer Berger attended several career fairs locally and throughout the region. He also attended and coordinated with the local criminal justice clubs in an effort to provide information to possible recruits on law enforcement and the Fargo Police Department. Officer Berger completed 49 pre-employment background investigations which cover a candidate's personal, education and work history for the previous 10 years. These backgrounds are time intensive and in depth in order to ensure we are hiring the best of the best.

PUBLIC RELATIONS

commercials.

These short, animated

commercials were used to raise awareness on the most reported and preventable property crimes we see, such as theft of motor vehicle, theft from garage, home burglary and theft of

The Department strives to be progressive in the dissemination of information regarding not only critical incidents that occur in our City, but helpful information such as crime alerts, current scams

packages. They were digitally placed and shared on the department's social media platforms, and are view-able on our YouTube channel.

CREATIVE SERVICES In April, the department hired Scott Cramer as our Creative Services Producer. Cramer has been been a welcomed addition to the department as he has provided a means to tell

and department related information. The

the department's stories in a fun, visual way by Schindeldecker partnered with the North

Department utilizes several social media platforms, and embraces positive relationships with our local media outlets to share information

Dakota Today Show on a weekly segment, Behind the Badge,

to talk about various safety

topics. This partnership has enabled us to talk

with our community.

more in depth about issues affecting our In 2019, Crime Prevention and Public Information

community, and reach a more diverse audience than social media platforms afford.

Officer Jessica Schindeldecker oversaw the

producing videos that cover events we have participated in or hosted, controversial topics such as how and why the department trains after an officer sustained a self inflicted gun shot wound, concerns surrounding Downtown safety after a couple homicides occurred, and the release of squad car footage, along with

department's public relations, social media

narration, of a controversial traffic stop.

platforms, and crime prevention campaigns. She

Producing such videos allows the department

responded to 1,564 media requests and website

to provide accurate and educational

contact inquiries.

information to the community we serve in an engaging way.

Schindeldecker worked with Video Arts to produce a new Mr. Thief, Lock It or Lose It campaign consisted of six 15-second

which

Highlights Citizen's Academy

Wonder Woman 5k

The department hosted its first Citizen's Police Academy in the fall after several years without. 22 individuals started the academy, and 15 graduated.

35 Under 35

Officers Rozich, Witzel,

Officer Jesseca White

and Martin participated

was chosen to particpate

in the I am Wonder

in the prestigious United

Woman 5k run in full

Way 35 Under 35

uniform on a hot June

Women's Leadership

evening.

program.

The officers requested to participate in this

White reflected on her experience stating, "When just

run in an effort to build relationships and

one individual in the workplace commits to becoming

connect with our community in a positive way.

a better leader, the ripple effect is infinite. A positive,

The department released a highlight video

confident, and connected leader creates positive,

covering their run which has reached 2M

confident connected teams, that have the networks

views! See the highlight video on our YouTube

and abilities to innovate, and ultimately lift our

channel.

businesses and communities to success."

Giving Hearts Day

Flag Down an Officer

The Community Engagement Team participated in Giving Hearts Day to raise funds for the Badges of Unity Fund. The Fund provides

FBI NA

The department held its

Lt. Travis Stefonowicz

second annual "Flag

graduated the FBI

Down an Officer"

National Academy class

campaign which provides

#277 in Sept. The FBI

community members an

National Academy, is a

opportunity to retire their

prestigious professional

weathered flags in a

10-week program, in

the financial resources to fund youth

dignified way. In 2019, officers collected 97

Quantico, VA, which provides coursework in

programming and school assemblies put on

flags.

intelligence theory, terrorism and terrorist mindsets,

by the team. The team raised $5,018!

management science, law, behavioral science, law enforcement communication, and forensic science.

The program serves to improve the administration of justice in police departments and agencies at home and abroad and to raise law enforcement standards, knowledge, and cooperation worldwide.

Donut Need a Reason

40 Under 40

Firehouse Grant

In June, the department

Lt. George Vinson was

In October, the

welcomed Tyler and his

named to the

department was

mom Sheena for his I

International Association

awareded the Firehouse

DONUT need a reason to

of Chiefs of Police 40

Subs Public Safety

THANK a cop, Inc. event.

Under 40 in October in

Foundation Grant for a

Chicago, IL. The 2019 40

2019 Kubota RTV-X1100

Under 40 awardees represent the top rising

It was an honor it was to be able to spend time with such an amazing young man. Tyler wants to be a K9 handler when he gets older, so we invited as many K9 units from the area.

Local law enforcement agencies such as the North Dakota Highway Patrol, Minnesota State Patrol, Cass County Sheriff's Office, and North Dakota State University Police Department joined us to welcome and thank them for honoring us. See the highlight video on our YouTube channel.

leaders from around the globe, exemplifying leadership, dedication, and service to their communities and the law enforcement profession.

Utility Terrain Vehicle.

This vehicle will allow officers to provide a more timely response in congested areas during events such as the Holiday Parade of Lights. The vehicle will also provide a means of transportation during emergency situations such as a flood.

Highlights USAF Thunderbirds

ND Special Olympics

Salute to Law Enforcement

In July, Officer Matt

The department supports

Each month, the Flag and

Niemeyer was chosen as

the North Dakota

Luther Family Ford

the recipient of the

Special Olympics each

recognize a member of

USAF Thunderbird Hero

year by participating in

local law enforcement for

Flight. This honor

the Torch Run, Tip a Cop

their service to their

provided Niemeyer a

and Polar Plunge!

community.

flight of a lifetime in a F16 Fighting Falcon. See the highlight

Detective Josh Loos was chosen to be

video on our YouTube channel.

recognized in July and Officer Travis Berger was recognized in December.

Bell Ringing

Festival of Trees

Cops and Kids

Each year, members of

The department's

Each year the local

the department

Community Engagement

Fraternal Order of Police

participate in the

Team sponosored a

hosts an event, Cops and

Salvation Army Kettle

Christmas Tree in the

Kids, which provides a

Campaign. Local law

Frasier Festival of Trees

shopping opportunity for

enforcement agencies

for the first time.

kids in our community

challenge the fire

who are unable to

department and local realtors each year for

Officers and Command Staff decorated the

acquire gifts for themselves or loved ones on

bragging rights, even though we rarely win.

tree with a law enforcement team including

their own. Several officers from our

blue and silver ornaments, blue ribbon, police

department attended the event, helping youth

cars, K9s and Fargo Police Patch light up

select gifts, wrap gifts and eat some delicious

ornaments.

food provided by the FOP.

Community Picnic

President + VP Visit

Telly Award

The department held it's

The Department worked

The Department won the

25th Annual Fargo Police

with the Secret Service

People's Choice Telly

Community Picnic in

when Vice President

award for the recruiting

Island Park in June. The

Pence and President

video we produced with

event is provided as a

Trump visited Fargo.

Bartlett Idea Co. at the

way to bring our community together with local law enforcement and resources available to them in our community. The event provided face paiting, bouncy houses, treats and entertainment at no cost.

end of 2018.

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