Fargo Police Chief Travis Stefonowicz
FARGO (KFGO) – The Fargo City Commission voted 5-0 Monday to select Interim Chief Travis Stefonowicz as the city’s 39th police chief.
The city says Stefonowicz brings 25 years of policing experience, grounded in steady leadership, deep operational experience and a longstanding commitment to officer wellness and community safety.
“Chief Stefonowicz has dedicated the majority of his career to this department and this city,” City Administrator Michael Redlinger said. “He understands Fargo, he understands our officers and he understands what it takes to maintain a strong, stable and forward-thinking police force. His long record of service and his focus on officer wellness and community safety reflect the values of Fargo well.”
Stefonowicz began his career with the Fargo Police Department in May 2002, bringing prior experience as a police officer in Aurora, Colorado, and as a dispatcher with the Red River Regional Dispatch Center. He became a key member of the Red River Regional SWAT Team, serving nine years in roles that included Operator, Basic Training Instructor and Team Leader. His dedication to service has been recognized through several major honors, including Fargo Police Officer of the Year, Supervisor of the Year and North Dakota Law Enforcement Officer of the Year.
Stefonowicz said his priority as Chief will be to maintain stability while continuing to advance initiatives that support officers and build trust throughout the community.
“It is an honor to serve as Chief of Police in the city I call home,” said Stefonowicz. “The Fargo Police Department is filled with dedicated professionals who care deeply about this community. My focus will be on supporting our team, strengthening our relationships with residents and the community and ensuring we maintain the high standard of safety and service Fargo expects and deserves.”
Stefonowicz will hold community forums in the coming months to meet residents and hear their concerns as he shapes the department’s priorities and long‑term strategy. He replaces Dave Zibolski who retired suddenly in March after serving as police chief for about five years.
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