Frequently Asked Questions

1. Why was the sex offender allowed to move into my neighborhood?

• The Fargo Police Department (FPD) cannot dictate where a sex offender chooses to live. The offender is required to register with us and notify us of any changes in address or employment.

2. Is this person dangerous?

• The FPD checks on each offender several times each year to ensure they are compliant with their requirements to register. The attention of the community notification process and the frequent visits by the police department seem to act as a deterrent to criminal behavior. The state has assessed this offender as having a high-risk for offending again. As a result, we believe it is important for neighbors to have accurate information about the offender.

3. What should I do if I see suspicious behavior?

• If you see any suspicious behavior you should notify the police department immediately. Do not take action yourself. The FPD relies on alert and aware citizens to provide valuable information in many instances and appreciates your involvement.

4. How do you keep track of homeless offenders?

• Individuals who register as homeless are required by North Dakota law to register every three days (72 hours) in the jurisdiction in which they reside. Our department follows up by visiting the locations they provide to ensure compliance with registration requirements. If they fail to check-in within the required timeframe or are found to be residing somewhere other than the location they provided, they are considered non-compliant and may face prosecution.

5. How can I learn about a sex offender who moves into my area?

• You can receive email notifications directly from the State of North Dakota’s Sex Offender Registry whenever a registered sex offender moves into your area. To sign up, visit the North Dakota Sex Offender Registry and use the “Location Search” feature on the homepage. Enter your address, city and select a search radius to define the area you want to monitor. After clicking “Search,” select “Track All” and provide your email address to begin receiving automatic notifications.
  
  It only takes a minute to set up and is an easy way to stay informed and aware of activity in your neighborhood.

Additional Information

• If you have questions or concerns, you can contact the FPD shift commander at 241-8175 or 235-4493.
  
  The FPD cautions the public about harassment or, other criminal behavior directed at the offender. This can result in criminal action against those responsible and endanger the sex offender registration law. Sex offender registration laws are under constant scrutiny and legal action. Law enforcement agencies make good use of the information provided by registration and does not want to see the law struck down.
  
  
  

More details on high-risk and lifetime offenders are available on the North Dakota Attorney General’s website and the Dru Sjodin National Sex Offender public website.

North Dakota Attorney General's Website
Dru Sjodin National Sex Offender Public Website