West Fargo Police Department hires first officer from Community Service Officer program

(West Fargo, ND) -- The West Fargo Police Department has announced that Community Service Officer Tyler Todd has been promoted to sworn law enforcement officer.

“The CSO program aims to give students hands-on experience in law enforcement while experiencing our department’s culture,” said Chief Denis Otterness. “Officer Todd is an outstanding example of our CSO program at work.”

In 2021, the CSO program changed from one full-time position to multiple part-time positions. This change adapted the position to help criminal justice students, and those interested in law enforcement, to start learning the basics of law enforcement. The goal of the CSO program is to help recruit and retain quality candidates to become officers for the West Fargo Police Department.

Todd, who is the son of Detroit Lakes Police Chief Steve Todd and the Nephew of former Fargo Police Chief David Todd, began as a CSO in February 2022.

The CSOs respond to calls for service, such as vehicle unlocks, animal calls, and parking complaints, freeing up our sworn officers to respond to criminal matters. They also work directly with the Fleet Manager for vehicle maintenance and deliveries to other government agencies.

The West Fargo Police Department currently has 6 part-time CSOs serving the residents of West Fargo.