WEST FARGO, N.D. — West Fargo Police Chief Pete Nielsen is speaking out to defend his department's professionalism following a controversial press conference held by Fargo Police Chief David Zibolski regarding the use of artificial intelligence in a recent fraud case.
During a press conference on Tuesday, Zibolski announced policy changes for the Fargo Police Department's use of facial recognition technology, stemming from the arrest and jailing of Angela Lipps, a Tennessee woman linked to a local bank fraud case. Zibolski claimed that Fargo detectives were given an AI-generated suspect lead from West Fargo Police without knowing the department possessed such technology. Zibolski also stated that Fargo would no longer accept information from West Fargo's system, preferring to rely on what he called "bonafide" intelligence centers.
Nielsen, appearing on a local radio show, expressed his frustration with the lack of communication and the characterization of his department. According to Nielsen, he was only notified 45 minutes prior to Zibolski's press conference that the topic would be discussed.
"For the Fargo Police Chief to come out and to use the words 'bonafide' police department is disrespectful to my agency, it's disrespectful to myself," Nielsen stated. "We run a very organized, a very professional agency here at West Fargo."
Nielsen addressed several of Zibolski's claims during the interview to clear up what he deemed as misinformation:
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The Technology: Nielsen clarified that West Fargo uses Clearview AI, a vetted facial recognition program utilized by over 800 government agencies across the country. The department has used the software since 2020. Nielsen emphasized that the system is audited, has checks and balances in place, and is strictly limited to only two authorized individuals within the department.
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The Investigation: In May, an attempted fraud occurred in West Fargo, and the department used their AI software to identify a possible suspect. However, Nielsen noted that AI is simply a tool and does not replace thorough police work. Because an AI photo match does not constitute enough probable cause on its own, West Fargo did not forward charges to the State's Attorney.
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Information Sharing: Fargo Police later requested the information regarding Angela Lipps from West Fargo, which was provided. Furthermore, Nielsen refuted the claim that West Fargo did not share the information with the North Dakota State and Local Intelligence Center (NDSLIC). Nielsen stated that West Fargo's intelligence unit did send it to NDSLIC, which returned the exact same results using the identical Clearview AI software. Nielsen noted that once West Fargo shared the initial lead, it was the requesting department's responsibility to fully investigate the potential suspect.
Nielsen expressed disappointment in how the situation was handled publicly, noting that it is standard protocol for police chiefs to communicate and coordinate prior to a press conference that involves multiple agencies.
"I wasn't there to represent the police department that I run, and that to me is unprofessional," Nielsen said.
Despite the public friction, Nielsen stated that the working relationships between the regional law enforcement departments remain strong. He emphasized that his department works collaboratively with other agencies and is always willing to share information. His primary goal in speaking out, he added, was simply to be transparent with the public and ensure citizens know the truth about West Fargo's vetted and professional procedures.