Derek Cruff promoted to West Fargo Police Department Commander

(Fargo, ND) -- The West Fargo Police Department has announced the promotion of Sergeant Derek Cruff to Commander. 

Cruff is a 30-year veteran of law enforcement with 16 years of investigation experience.

 “Following the promotion of Assistant Chief Anderson, the West Fargo Police Department conducted an extensive internal process to identify candidates to fill the vacant Commander role,” said Chief Pete Nielsen. “Sergeant Cruff was selected based on his years of experience, dedication to the department and vast law enforcement knowledge.”

 Cruff is from Leonard, North Dakota, and was hired by the West Fargo Police Department as a Patrol Officer in 2001. 

During his tenure with the department, Cruff has served as an Explorers Advisor, Firearms Instructor, Detective Sergeant, and COPS Unit team Sergeant. 

Cruff was awarded the Employee of the Year in 2010, the Commendable Service Award in 2016, and Active Shooter Response Ribbon in 2016.

 Cruff holds an Associates Degree from Bismarck State College, a Bachelors of Science in Criminal Justice from Minot State College and a Masters degree in Business from the University of Mary. 

While attending college, he worked for the Barnes County Sheriff’s Office then worked for Dickey County Sheriff’s Office until 1997, and for the Wahpeton Police Department from 1991 until 2001. 

Cruff graduated from the Peace Officer Academy in Bismarck, North Dakota.

 Commander Cruff joins the West Fargo Police Department’s Command staff which includes four Commander positions overseeing various divisions within the department.