The city of Thompson is evaluating a contract that would allow a deputy from the Grand Forks County Sheriff’s Office to patrol the area. This decision is scheduled for consideration by the Thompson City Council on January 5, 2024. Following the departure of former police chief David Kurtz to the University of North Dakota Police Department in October, Mayor Jeremy Hughes indicated that the city began exploring alternative policing options.
Hughes emphasized the advantages of collaborating with the sheriff’s office. “Going with the county just gives us more widespread coverage,” he stated, highlighting the benefits of having greater access to law enforcement resources. If approved, the sheriff’s office would assign a deputy specifically to Thompson, mirroring existing contracts with the cities of Larimore and Northwood.
During a meeting on December 16, 2023, the Grand Forks County Commission endorsed the pursuit of this contract. Sheriff Andy Schneider explained that deputies assigned to these cities focus solely on their respective communities. “Those deputies are responsible only for those cities,” he said, noting that they typically do not respond to calls outside their designated areas. In certain circumstances, such as when other deputies are occupied, a response might occur, but the primary responsibility remains within the contract cities.
The arrangement would also allow the sheriff’s office to provide training for the designated deputy, with the costs of the contract borne by Thompson. Hughes initiated discussions with Schneider after learning from other communities that utilize the sheriff’s office for policing services.
A notable advantage of securing a deputy is the enforcement of municipal ordinances, which often fall outside the sheriff’s jurisdiction. Schneider explained, “If they have a leash law, a deputy can’t go down there and write a ticket for you not having your dog on a leash because that’s not a state-centric code — that’s a city law.” By having a deputy stationed in Thompson, the city could ensure that local ordinances are actively enforced.
Hughes expressed optimism about this potential partnership, stating that it would be a significant benefit for Thompson. “We’re just looking forward to a new connection and another partner that we’ll work together with,” he noted, aiming for the mutual betterment of the community.
As the January 5 meeting approaches, the outcome of the council’s decision will be pivotal for Thompson’s law enforcement strategy moving forward. The city’s leadership hopes that an agreement with the Grand Forks County Sheriff’s Office will enhance public safety and provide a more robust policing framework.
