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Fargo Crime Rates Drop in 2025

  //food-wine.news-articles.net/content/2026/02/23/fargo-crime-rates-drop-in-2025.html
  Published in Food and Wine on Monday, February 23rd 2026 at 14:12 GMT by inforum
      Locales: North Dakota, UNITED STATES

Fargo, North Dakota - February 23rd, 2026 - The Fargo Police Department (FPD) today presented its 2025 crime statistics, revealing an overall decrease in criminal activity across the city. At a news conference held this morning, Police Chief David Zibolski announced a 3.5% reduction in total crime compared to 2024 figures, signaling a continued positive trend in public safety for Fargo residents.

The most encouraging news came from the violent crime category, which experienced a substantial 8.2% decrease. This significant drop encompasses reductions in key areas like robberies and aggravated assaults, reflecting the effectiveness of targeted policing efforts. While homicides remained at the same level as the previous year, the decline in other violent offenses paints a reassuring picture for the community. Chief Zibolski emphasized that maintaining this progress is paramount, and that the department is committed to sustaining these lower rates.

Property crime, although decreasing by a more modest 2.5%, still contributes significantly to the overall crime picture. Decreases in burglary, larceny, and vandalism were noted, but officials stressed the need for continued vigilance in these areas. Residents are encouraged to report any suspicious activity and to take preventative measures to secure their homes and belongings.

Chief Zibolski directly credited the positive statistics to the department's evolving strategies, specifically highlighting the benefits of enhanced community partnerships and proactive policing. "We're seeing the results of those partnerships and focused strategies," Zibolski stated. "Our officers are out in the community, not just responding to calls, but working proactively to prevent crime." This proactive approach, he explained, involves increased foot patrols in key areas, regular community meetings to foster trust and gather intelligence, and collaboration with social service organizations to address the root causes of crime.

However, the presentation wasn't without its concerns. A notable uptick in motor vehicle thefts was identified as a growing problem. While overall property crime decreased, the rise in vehicle thefts is prompting the FPD to dedicate additional resources and collaborate with neighboring law enforcement agencies in surrounding counties and states. This regional approach is vital, officials say, as stolen vehicles often cross jurisdictional lines. The FPD is analyzing theft patterns to identify hotspots and common methods used by thieves, with the goal of implementing targeted prevention strategies.

Preliminary data suggests that a significant number of vehicle thefts involve unlocked vehicles or vehicles left with keys inside, further emphasizing the importance of personal responsibility. The FPD has launched a public awareness campaign reminding residents to lock their vehicles and remove valuables. They are also investigating the possibility of organized theft rings operating in the region.

Beyond statistics, the FPD also unveiled plans for further investment in technology aimed at enhancing crime prevention and investigative capabilities. This includes expanding the use of data analytics to predict crime hotspots and deploying additional surveillance cameras in strategic locations. The department is also exploring the implementation of body-worn cameras for all officers, a move aimed at increasing transparency and accountability.

The presentation was followed by a detailed Q&A session with local reporters, who pressed Chief Zibolski on specific areas of concern and the department's long-term strategies. Reporters asked about the impact of recent budget allocations on policing efforts, and the chief reaffirmed the department's commitment to utilizing resources effectively. Questions were also raised about the potential for increased gang activity, and Chief Zibolski assured the public that the FPD is actively monitoring such threats and working to disrupt any criminal networks operating in the city.

The Fargo Police Department's 2025 crime statistics represent a positive step forward for public safety in the city. While the increase in motor vehicle thefts remains a concern, the overall trend of declining crime suggests that the department's strategies are working. Continued community engagement, proactive policing, and investment in technology will be crucial to maintaining this positive momentum in the years to come.