During a recent government meeting, a local resident voiced serious concerns regarding the conduct of the Fargo Police Department, alleging harassment and improper ticketing practices. The individual recounted multiple incidents involving traffic stops where they felt unjustly targeted by officers. They claimed that despite having legal tint on their vehicle and functioning lights, they received citations for minor infractions, including the presence of a dash cam, which they argued is not illegal.
The resident expressed frustration over what they described as a lack of accountability within the police force, suggesting that they might pursue a petition for the police chief's resignation or seek legal counsel due to ongoing harassment. They highlighted a specific incident where an officer issued a speeding ticket without using radar, further questioning the legitimacy of the enforcement actions taken against them.
In response to community inquiries, police officials provided insights into how officers are alerted to be on the lookout for violent and wanted individuals. They explained that alerts, known as BOLOs (Be On the Look Out), are disseminated through various channels, including daily briefings and a software system called Smart Force, which officers can access for real-time updates on individuals with active warrants.
Additionally, the police department conducts biweekly intelligence meetings to prioritize and share information about serious offenders, ensuring that officers are informed about individuals they may need to apprehend. However, officials clarified that they do not maintain a physical board displaying wanted individuals, as often depicted in media, but rather rely on digital systems for tracking and communication.
The meeting underscored ongoing tensions between community members and law enforcement, highlighting the need for transparency and accountability in policing practices.