1937-1959:

Law enforcement in West Fargo began February 15, 1937 when Andrew Walburg became the first constable. Walburg worked part-time and was later replaced by Cliff Berlin. 

The first full-time Chief of Police was Lloyd "Smokey" Stensrud, appointed on May 1, 1957. In 1959, Stensrud was joined by Les Lindblad.

1966-2023:

In 1966, Chief Stensrud was elected as Cass County Sheriff. Lester Lindblad was then appointed Chief of Police and served until 1973.

In 1975, Assistant Chief Ken Hansen took over the position of Chief of Police and served until 1994, resigning due to health concerns. Captain Dave Bruckner took over as Interim Chief of Police. 

On January 9, 1995, former Cass County Investigator Arland H. Rasmussen was appointed as Chief of Police and served until his retirement on June 20, 2014.

On June 21, 2014, Mike Reitan was appointed as Chief of Police and served until Jan. 2017. Reitan also served as a Officer, Sergeant, Captain and Assistant Chief prior. Assistant Chief Jerry Boyer served as Interim Chief of Police until July 2017.

In July 2017, Heith Janke was appointed as Chief of Police and served until March 2020. Assistant Chief Jerry Boyer served as interim Chief from March-September 2020.

On Sept. 9, 2020, Denis E. Otterness was appointed as Chief of Police and served until his retirement on Oct. 6, 2023. 

PRESENT:

Pete Nielsen was appointed as Chief of Police on Oct. 9, 2023.