Central ND News

Jason Stugelmeyer is set to become the new police chief of Bismarck on August 1. The decision was made after a recommendation from a hiring panel, which was unanimously accepted by the Bismarck City Commission during their meeting on July 22.

“Our community is extremely fortunate to have such a qualified person to head our police department. I’m looking forward to working with Chief Stugelmeyer as he ensures Bismarck remains a safe place to live and work,” stated Commissioner John Risch, who oversees the police portfolio. “I wholeheartedly supported the decision to select Jason as our next chief. I’ve worked with him this past year and he’s a seasoned professional with 24 years on the force. Whenever citizens have contacted me about questions or concerns, I’ve talked to Jason about those situations, and he has immediately addressed them.”

Stugelmeyer became deputy chief of the Bismarck Police Department (BPD) when Dave Draovitch transitioned from that role to chief in 2018 following Dan Donlin's retirement. Throughout his career at BPD, Stugelmeyer served in various capacities, including 15 years with the West Dakota SWAT Team. He has received multiple accolades such as three-time Badge of Hope winner, two-time Meritorious Service Award recipient, and was named BPD Officer of the Year in 2007. He holds a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice from the University of Minnesota-Moorhead, earned in 2000.

The search for Draovitch's successor began after his retirement announcement in May. Among seven applicants meeting qualifications for the position, four advanced to further testing stages. One candidate withdrew before starting these evaluations. The final candidates were Stugelmeyer and Daniel Weigel from the University of North Dakota Patrol Command, both interviewed by the hiring committee on July 17.