Fargo Police Chief Dave Zibolski is announcing his retirement from The Fargo Police Department, following a law-enforcement career that has spanned more than four decades.
Chief Zibolski said serving the residents of Fargo has been one of the greatest honors of his professional life. “I want to thank the Fargo community for the trust and support you’ve shown me throughout my time as Chief. After more than 41 years in law enforcement, I’m looking forward to spending more time with my wife, children and young grandchildren,” he said. “It has been a privilege to work alongside the dedicated men and women of The Fargo Police Department. I have great respect for this team and the outstanding work they do for our city.”
Zibolski was appointed Police Chief in October 2020. During his tenure, he has overseen significant growth in the department’s staffing and capabilities, advancing initiatives designed to improve public safety and support officers. Among his accomplishments has been establishing the department’s Real Time Crime Center that leverages technology and data to support officers in responding more effectively to incidents. Zibolski also prioritized officer wellness initiatives to strengthen mental health resources and resilience within the department. He reinstituted the Traffic Safety Team to focus on roadway safety and proactive enforcement, and he played an active role in statewide discussions on various issues affecting law enforcement. Overall crime in Fargo continues on a downward trend after decreasing approximately 6.8% in 2024 and 10% in 2025, with a total reduction of 17% since 2023.
“We are grateful for Chief Zibolski’s dedicated service to The Fargo Police Department and The City of Fargo,” City Administrator Michael Redlinger said. “Chief Zibolski has helped modernize the department while supporting officer wellness and developing new officers and supervisors who are well prepared to lead and serve. His work has positioned the department for continued success and will have a lasting positive impact on our city. On behalf of The City of Fargo, we thank him for his commitment and wish him and his family all the best in retirement.”
Throughout his career, Chief Zibolski has been recognized for his commitment to professional policing, leadership development and strengthening partnerships between law enforcement and the communities they serve. He began his career with the Milwaukee Police Department, where he spent 27 years in a variety of patrol, investigative and specialty unit leadership assignments, ultimately rising to the rank of Captain. From 2011 to 2015, he served as Deputy Administrator for the Wisconsin Department of Justice’s Division of Law Enforcement Services. From 2015 to 2020, he served as Police Chief in Beloit, Wisconsin.
Chief Zibolski’s official last day with The Fargo Police Department will be Friday, March 27, 2026. An interim Police Chief will be appointed to ensure continuity of leadership.
“Chief Zibolski has served our community with professionalism and a strong commitment to public safety, and we are grateful for his leadership and years of service,” Mayor Dr. Tim Mahoney said. “We will approach the process of selecting the next Police Chief with thoughtful consideration and will involve City leaders, law enforcement and community stakeholders as we determine the best path forward.”