Fargo Police Department members voice support for Interim Chief's permanent appointment

Multiple groups within the department back Travis Stefonowicz for full-time chief role

Apr. 12, 2026 at 6:27am

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An extreme close-up photograph of a police badge or insignia, capturing the intricate details and textures of the metal and enamel under harsh, dramatic lighting, conceptually representing the serious, investigative nature of the police department's leadership transition.The Fargo Police Department's endorsement of Interim Chief Stefonowicz reflects a unified commitment to stable, transparent leadership.Fargo Today

Interim Fargo Police Department Chief Travis Stefonowicz has received support from various groups within the department, including sworn and civilian staff, sergeants, lieutenants, and division commanders, for his permanent appointment as the next leader of the Fargo Police Department.

Why it matters

The endorsements from multiple levels of the police department indicate a strong internal consensus around Stefonowicz's leadership abilities and readiness to guide the organization forward. His potential permanent appointment would provide stability and continuity for the department and the Fargo community.

The details

The letters of support highlight Stefonowicz's demonstrated leadership, judgment, work ethic, understanding of the department's needs, and ability to foster collaboration, transparency, and integrity. The groups express high confidence in his qualifications and his potential to effectively manage the city's evolving public safety requirements while maintaining a supportive environment for department personnel.

  • The Fargo City Commission will consider Turnberg's request for Stefonowicz's permanent appointment as chief at Monday night's meeting.

The players

Travis Stefonowicz

The interim Fargo Police Department chief who has received widespread support from within the department for a permanent appointment as the next leader.

Michelle Turnberg

The Fargo City Commissioner who has requested Stefonowicz's permanent appointment as police chief.

Matt Christensen

One of the three Fargo Police Department division commanders who have endorsed Stefonowicz's leadership.

Troy Hannig

One of the three Fargo Police Department division commanders who have endorsed Stefonowicz's leadership.

Travis Moser

One of the three Fargo Police Department division commanders who have endorsed Stefonowicz's leadership.

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What’s next

The Fargo City Commission will consider Turnberg's request for Stefonowicz's permanent appointment as police chief at Monday night's meeting.

The takeaway

The widespread support for Interim Chief Stefonowicz's permanent appointment from various levels of the Fargo Police Department underscores his strong leadership capabilities and the department's confidence in his ability to guide the organization and community through evolving public safety challenges.