During the Monday, April 18, 2022, City Commission meeting, Police Chief Denis Otterness presented the West Fargo Police Department’s 2021 annual report. The report, which covers the department’s accomplishments, vital statistics and state of the department from the past year, displays the department’s success in meeting the needs of the growing community. 

Despite a slight increase in crimes against persons, there was an 8% decrease in overall crime compared to 2020 and a 10% decrease in property crimes since 2020. With over 28,000 calls for service, the department continues to see a decrease in overall crime even as the city continues to grow. 

“Our department remains significantly below the reported six-year crime average,” said Chief Otterness. “The continued decrease in overall crime rates would not be possible without the partnership between the community and members of the police department.”

The West Fargo Police Department continues to evolve to meet the needs of the residents in a variety of ways. The Community Outreach Programs and Services (COPS) Unit demonstrates the commitment to working with all residents, businesses, visitors and community partners. New COPS Unit programs included Badges and Bobbers fishing program, Police in the Park, and Cops & Dobbers bingo. 

The department dedicates the 2021 annual report to the memory of Lieutenant Adam Gustafson. Lieutenant Gustafson died while on duty on Tuesday, May 18, 2021. Lieutenant Gustafson’s life will not be remembered by how he died, but by how he lived. 

The West Fargo Police Department’s 2021 annual report can be viewed online.