Travis Stefonowicz
Assistant Chief
Assistant Chief Travis Stefonowicz has been employed with the Fargo Police Department since May of 2002. Prior to working for the Fargo Police Department, Stefonowicz worked as a police officer for the Aurora Police Department in Aurora Colorado. Stefonowicz also worked as a dispatcher for the Red River Regional Dispatch Center, where he was awarded a “stork pin” for helping a young couple deliver a baby over the phone as they were too far along to get to the hospital and they lived far enough away that the ambulance wasn’t going to arrive in time.
Stefonowicz was promoted to the rank of Sergeant in February of 2009. He supervised patrol officers in the Field Services Division and was in charge of the Training Division where he created a new monthly training program for our patrol officers allowing them to train during their work shifts in shorter intervals.
Stefonowicz was promoted to the rank of Lieutenant in September 2016 where he oversaw the Night Shift of the Field Services Division, and then the Administrative Services Division where he oversaw the operations including recruiting, hiring, training, evidence, facilities, equipment, police records, public information, grants and the department's budget.
Stefonowicz was promoted to the rank of Assistant Chief on July 12, 2021. Stefonowicz serves as second in command and provides assistance to the Chief in development, administration, coordination and implementation of departmental policies, procedures and activities.
During his time at the Fargo Police Department, Stefonowicz has worked in various assignments. He has been a Police Training Officer, Firearms Instructor, Defensive Tactics Instructor, Active Shooter Instructor and E.V.O.C. Instructor. He has served on the Chief’s Advisory Committee and the Chief’s Selection Committee in 2015. Stefonowicz served on the Red River Regional SWAT team for 9 years, and served as an Operator, Basic Training Instructor and a Team Leader during his service on the SWAT team.
Stefonowicz has served as a Physical Fitness and Response to Critical Incidents Instructor and a board member on the Advisory Committee for the Lake Region State College Police Basic Program. Stefonowicz implemented the department's
Fargo Police Academy enabling the department to efficiently hire and train new police officers.
Stefonowicz has been recognized as an employee who performed an act worthy of recognition; Top Gun during SWAT Basic Training; two Combat Cross award; Fargo Police Officer of the Year; North Dakota Law Enforcement Officer of the Year; the Service Award for service and dedication as a PTO and SWAT Team member in 2008, 2009 and 2013; the Chief’s Medal; and a letter of commendation for distinguishing himself with an act that exemplifies the goals, values and mission of the department. Stefonowicz was recognized as Supervisor of the Year for 2020.
Stefonowicz received his bachelor’s degree in business administration with an emphasis in human resources through Rasmussen College, and an associate of arts degree from North Dakota State College of Science. Stefonowicz is a graduate of the 277th class of the FBI National Academy.