Fargo Police report bigger downtown patrol presence, camping ordinance enforcement and staffing shortfalls

Fargo police told the Police Advisory and Oversight Board on May 8 that downtown patrols and technology investments have strengthened enforcement, but staffing shortfalls remain a central challenge.

Officer Mosher of the Fargo Police Department reported the Community Engagement Team is back up to eight full officers after a period of reduced staffing. Mosher said officers and partners have focused on downtown disorder and business concerns and that a recent meeting with downtown business owners organized with the Downtown Community Partnership was well received.

The city’s camping ordinance went into effect May 1 making camping on public land illegal. Mosher said officers contacted two camps on May 1, leading to arrests tied to outstanding warrants and citations under the camping ordinance; on May 2, public works and…