The Fargo Police Department (FPD) learned of an on-going need by the Rape and Abuse Crisis Center (RACC) for used cell phones. The RACC provides the cell phones to domestic abuse victims, who are able to use the phones for 911-only calls if they find themselves in a dangerous situation.
Currently, the department follows a two-year cycle for upgrading department phones. Previously, phones have been sold on an online auction or kept as backup . Recently, Police Chief David Zibolski and The City of Fargo have identified this worthy cause and approved the donation of old cell phones to the RACC. Today, the department provided 20 cell phones to victims in the Fargo community.
In domestic violence cases, it is not uncommon for abusers to break or take away the cell phones of victims. Destroying or denying phones is one way in which abusers can control their partner. Without a cell phone, victims are unable to call for help when needed. Those who do have cell phones are often stalked and intimidated by the abuser through the device.
The FPD strives to provide the highest level of service through community partnerships, and forward thinking policing to improve the quality of life for the members of our community.This partnership with the RACC exemplifies the department’s value of Guardianship and Respect. The FPD believes that all human life has value and deserves respect, and will guard, protect, and preserve the life of those in the Fargo community.