Central ND News

Bismarck Police Chief Dave Draovitch has formally announced his retirement after a 36-year tenure with the Bismarck Police Department (BPD). His last working day will be on July 31, 2025.

With a strong family tradition in law enforcement, Draovitch’s career path seemed inevitable. His father, Dan, served as the Chief of Police for the Minot Police Department. His wife is a retired police officer, and her father led the Fargo Police Department as Chief of Police.

Reflecting on his time with the department, Draovitch stated, “I have been truly blessed to work alongside some of the finest men and women in law enforcement. It has been both an honor and a privilege to serve the citizens of Bismarck, and I have been immensely proud to call this community home throughout my career.”

Draovitch began his service in 1989 as a patrol officer and later advanced to Sergeant in 2003, Lieutenant in 2006, Deputy Chief in 2013, and ultimately to Chief of Police in 2018.

Bismarck Mayor Mike Schmitz commented on Draovitch’s service, expressing appreciation and acknowledging the community’s benefit from his tenure as Chief of Police. Schmitz remarked, “Over the past few years as Mayor, I have gotten an opportunity to see first-hand the pride that Chief Draovitch takes in servant leadership, and I’ve taken to heart the smile on his face when he talks about citizens from Bismarck sticking up for their law enforcement officers in conversations or on social media. Bismarck has benefitted in so many ways from his dedication and service, culminating with his leadership as Chief of Police over these past eight years. We wish him nothing but the greatest retirement possible.”

Throughout his time with the BPD, Draovitch was known for his time as a K-9 handler, working with partners Bo and Kodiak. His leadership marked a period of growth, technology integration, and accreditation for the department. His efforts led to the implementation of body-worn cameras, increased ballistic protection, the initiation of a drone program, and a shift to Intelligence-Led Policing. His leadership ensured successful reaccreditation in 2021 and 2025 by the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies (CALEA).