2023 Cass County Sheriff's Office Annual Report | North Dakota

Sheriff Jesse Jahner
MESSAGE FROM YOUR
SHERIFF
As your elected Sheriff, I am honored to present the 2023 Cass County Sheriff’s Office Annual
Report.
As I begin the 2nd year of my 2nd term, I am honored
to serve as your Cass County Sheriff and appreciate
the support I and my staff continue to receive from the
citizens of Cass County. Our staff goes out each day
to provide a high level of public safety while building
strong partnerships with our businesses and citizens.
Through fostering these important relationships, we are
able to take a proactive approach to addressing criminal
activity.
As I reflect on 2023, I am not surprised to see that addiction and mental health are still a large
contributor to our calls for service numbers. In 2023, the Cass County Sheriff’s Office responded
to 43,156 calls for service. We continue to see that number rise as our population continues to
increase. Narcotics trafficking, narcotics usage, thefts and burglaries, fraud, and financial scams
seem to drive a majority of our crime numbers. Even with these increases, our office continues to
find progressive ways to deter this activity. Our “Adopt a Community Program,” which assigns
a deputy as a liaison to our rural communities, has assisted in both proactive crime measures
and investigative efforts.
In 2023, one of our main challenges was incarceration capacity at the jail. Over the past two
years, we have experienced a continual capacity issue, which has led to a collaborative effort
between our office, our county commissioners, and the county administrator to move forward
with constructing an additional jail pod. The new addition will add another 192 beds, bringing
the overall capacity upon completion to 540 beds. The capacity issues have caused challenges
for local area law enforcement when it comes to arresting and incarcerating those individuals
with lighter, nonviolent crimes. Sometimes, those individuals must be released upon their own
recognizance in order to make room for those with more violent charges and tendencies. The
new jail pod is projected to be completed sometime in the spring of 2025. That will allow law
enforcement a better opportunity to provide a higher level of public safety to our community
when arrests are made. With the addition of the new Pod, the Cass County Sheriff’s Office will
have approximately 260 employees.
Also, in 2023, we worked to bring a new level of preparedness to our community by partnering
with Cass County Businesses to teach Active Threat/ Active Shooter/ Stop the Bleed Courses.
Over the past two years, over 90 businesses have completed the training, and this year, we are
on pace to add another 60 or so businesses. The training prepares our
businesses and citizens on how to respond and survive acts of violence in
our community.
In closing, I hope this report and enclosed information gives you a good
oversight of how we look to serve all of you each and every day. I want to
thank all of you for the support and opportunity to serve as your Sheriff.
Jesse Jahner

JESSE F. JAHNER
CASS COUNTY SHERIFF
Sheriff Jesse Jahner began his employment with the Cass County Sheriff ’s Office in May
1998. Sheriff Jahner started his career by working as a Correctional Officer in the Cass
County Jail. In 2000, Sheriff Jahner was promoted to Patrol Deputy, where he served as a
Field Training Officer and worked with four adopted communities. In 2006, Sheriff Jahner
was promoted to the rank of Detective, where he served on the Cass County Drug Task
Force. In 2011, he was promoted to the rank of Sergeant and supervised the Cass County
Sheriff ’s Office Investigations and Patrol Division. In that same year, he was transferred to
act as Training Sergeant for the department overseeing training for 185 employees. In 2015,
he was asked to supervise the Metro Area Street Crimes Unit. In 2016, Sheriff Jahner was
promoted to the rank of Captain, where he oversaw the Patrol Division, Training, Special
Operations, Search and Rescue Operations, and Use of Force Deployments. Sheriff Jahner
was the commander of the Cass County Corrections Emergency Response Team from
2011 to 2013. Sheriff Jahner also served on the Red River Valley SWAT Team from 2002
to 2018 and acted as a Team Leader and Assistant Team Commander. During the flood
fighting efforts of 2011, Sheriff Jahner served as Airboat Search and Rescue Operation
Commander. In 2019, he was elected Cass County Sheriff.
Sheriff Jahner is a Certified Police Instructor for several disciplines, including firearms,
active shooter, room clearing, taser, less lethal and chemical munitions deployment, use
of force, emergency vehicle operations, and pursuit driving. Sheriff Jahner has received
over 2900 hours of specialized training and provided over 2200 hours of Peace Officer
Standards and Training Board (POST) certified training hours to officers in North
Dakota, Minnesota, and South Dakota.
Sheriff Jahner has been awarded three Distinguished Service Medals, Meritorious
Unit Citation, the Sheriff ’s Medal, Combat Action Ribbon, and Combat Action
Cross, and was picked by peers as Deputy of the Year and Supervisor of the Year.
Sheriff Jahner has a Bachelor of Science degree from North Dakota State
University in Humanities and Social Sciences emphasis in Criminal Justice.
In addition, Sheriff Jahner has attended several leadership courses, which
include the Department of Homeland Security’s National Academy,
National Command & Staff College, FBI Trilogy Leadership Courses,
Dale Carnegie Leadership Course, International Association of Chiefs
of Police Leadership in Police Organizations, National Tactical
Officers Associations Training Management and Risk Mitigation
Course.
Sheriff Jahner serves on several boards, which include the North
Dakota POST Board and the Crime Victim Services Board, and
recently served as the Dakota Territories Sheriff ’s Association
President, representing Sheriffs in the States of North and South
Dakota. In 2024, Sheriff Jahner will serve as a board member
for the National Sheriff ’s Association (NSA), acting as a liaison
between the North Dakota Sheriff ’s Association and the National
Sheriff ’s Association.

mission |Vision |values
Mission
The mission of the Cass County Sheriff’s
strong community partnerships, depart
customer service.
Vision
We will accomplish our mission by w
departments as a unified team to foste
enforcing the rule of law, treating all ind
and provide a high level of training to e
Values
We value all members of our commun
providing exceptional public service an
respect, fairness, accountability, teamw

iff’s Office is to enhance public safety by building
epartment partnerships, and providing excellent
by working with our communities and other
foster trust and safety through professionalism,
ll individuals fair and equal, be forward-thinking,
to excel as an organization.
munity and organization. We are committed to
ce and safety through professionalism, integrity,
eamwork, and reasonableness.

The Cass County Sheriff’s Office has four divisions, within the organization,
encompassing approximately 235 employee positions, 140 of which are
sworn deputies.
The men and women of the Cass County Sheriff’s Office are committed
to providing public safety, building community partnerships, and, most
importantly, working hard to make Cass County a safe place to live and raise
your families.

organizational chart

Chief Deputy haaland
DEAN HAALAND
Chief Deputy
CHIEF DEPUTY
Dean Haaland began his career in June of 1989 as a part-time Cass County Juvenile
Detention Officer. In December 1990, Dean was transferred to the Cass County Jail and
served in a part-time capacity until he was promoted to full-time also in 1990.
In 1994, Dean was offered and accepted a patrol deputy position and served within that
division until 2002.
Dean transferred to the Civil Process Division in 2002 and served within that division
through 2009.
Dean was promoted to Corporal in 2010 and transferred to the Patrol Division as a firstline
supervisor.
In May 2013, Dean was promoted to Sergeant and continued to work in the Patrol Division
until September 2017.
Dean was promoted to Captain in September 2017 and oversaw Courthouse Operations,
Civil Process & Warrants, and Administrative Assistants. In September 2019, Dean
returned to patrol to serve as Division Commander.
Dean was promoted to Chief Deputy in June 2021 and is tasked with overseeing each
division, including the Jail, Civil Process & Warrants, Patrol, Training, Special Projects,
Investigations, and grants. Dean also manages the annual Cass County Sheriff ’s Office
budget.
Dean serves on multiple National Sheriffs’ Association Boards. In 2012, the National
Sheriffs’ Association committee chair asked Dean to serve
on the National Sheriffs’ Association Traffic Safety
Board. In January 2019, Dean was asked to sit on the
National Sheriffs’ Association Court Transport and
Civil Process Committee and still serves on these
committees to this day. As of 2022, Dean also serves
on the NSA Domestic Violence Committee.
Dean is the Cass County Sheriff ’s Office representative
on the Red River Valley SWAT executive board,
which oversees the team and makes decisions on
its functions.
Chief Deputy Haaland has long been a
member of TRIAD, a group of seniors,
business, and law enforcement leaders
tasked with our community’s senior
citizens’ well-being.

2022
$ 23,072,699
2023
$ 25,902,815
budget | Financial

office of professional standards
OFFICE OF PROFESSIONAL STANDARDS & ACCOUNTABILITY
2023
OFFICE COMPLAINTS
17
SUSTAINED
POLICY FAILURE
16
1
2023
PUBLIC COMPLAINTS
0

Sheriff Jahner and the division commanders review all office complaints,
both internal and external, to determine if policy, procedures, and state
or federal violations have occurred. Upon that review, it will then be
determined if the violation falls under one of the below-listed outcomes.
Based on those outcomes, disciplinary suggestions are provided to the
Sheriff, at which point the disciplinary decision is made.
SUSTAINED WITH DISCIPLINE
• There is sufficient evidence to establish that the incident did occur, and the facts
and circumstances support the determination that these actions constitute
misconduct.
SUSTAINED – NO DISCIPLINE
• There is sufficient evidence to establish the incident did occur but was not the
result of intentional, negligent, or reckless conduct on the part of the employee.
NOT SUSTAINED
• There is insufficient evidence to clearly prove or disprove the complaint or
incident.
POLICY FAILURE
• The evidence indicates the act or incident did occur, but the behavior is not
clearly covered by policy.
UNFOUNDED
• There was no evidence to prove the complaint or incident was factual, and the
incident did not occur.
EXONERATED
• There is sufficient evidence which indicates that the act or incident did occur, but
the actions were justified, lawful, and proper.
CLOSED
• The complaint has been previously investigated and there is no new evidence
that would require the complaint to be reinvestigated.
• The complaint was opened; however, the deputy resigned their employment
prior to participating in the investigation or prior to the conclusion of the
investigation.
EMPLOYEE RESIGNATION
office of professional standards

CIVIL AND WARRANTS
2022 2023
Warrants Received 3,561 4,186
Warrants Cleared/Served 3,594 4,556
Outstanding Active Warrants
Felony 962 822
Misdemeanor 2,680 2,419
Civil 12 10
Total 3,654 3,251
Court Services
Civil Process Papers Received 8,701 8,967
Civil Service Revenues $226,734.72 $283,426.30
Special Executions (Evictions) 314 325
Foreclosure Sales 23 24

COURT TRANSPORT AND SECURITY
Court Hearings 2022 2023
ITV (Interactive TV) In-Custody Court Hearings 4,743 5,134
Mental Health Hearings 66 136
In-Custody Hearings: Bench/Jury Trials etc. 2,027 2,297
Protection Order Hearings 388 316
Transport 2022 2023
Mental Health Transports 133 100
State Hospital Transports 66 66
Inmate Transports (ND DOCR | In & Out of State) 1,058 1,094
Public Security Screening into the
Courthouse & Annex Buildings
2022 2023
192,809 205,937
COURT SERVICES COMMANDER
Captain Katie Fuller began her career with the Cass County Sheriff ’s Office as a part-time Juvenile Detention
Deputy in 2007 and later started working full-time at the jail as a correctional officer in 2009.
In 2012 Katie was promoted to the rank of Corporal; in 2013, Katie was
promoted to Jail Sergeant in the booking area. In 2015 Katie was reassigned
as the Court Transport Sergeant. Katie was promoted to the rank of
Lieutenant as the Assistant Jail Administrator in 2016. As the Assistant
Jail Administrator, Katie supervised the shift commanders,
ensured that security operations were performed per policy and procedure,
and served as the PREA Coordinator.
In 2021, Katie was promoted to division commander and took on additional
responsibilities overseeing the Court Transport/Court Security and the Civil
and Warrants Division as the Court Services-Administrative Captain.
Katie is responsible for overseeing the Cass County Courthouse and
Annex buildings for proper security for the employees and the public
seeking services at the facility. Katie also supervises inmate transports
to and from other facilities, counties, and states. Katie conducts and
oversees civil process and court orders, along with warrants issued by
the court brought to our office for service.
KATIE FULLER
Court Services Captain

corrections | Jail
JAIL ADMINISTRATOR
Captain Andrew Frobig serves as the Jail Administrator at the Cass County Jail. Andrew
began his career with the Cass County Sheriff ’s Office in 2004 as a Correctional Officer.
Between 2007 and 2012, Andrew served in various supervisory ranks as a Corporal,
Sergeant, and Lieutenant. Andrew was appointed as the Jail Administrator in 2014.
During his career, Andrew has served on various teams, including the Corrections
Emergency Response Team (CERT), Peer Assistance Crisis Team (PACT), Field Readiness
Training (FRT), and also as a Field Training Officer (FTO). Andrew has also served on
the Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) since 2010. He serves as the Secretary/Treasurer of the
ND Correctional Administrators Association since 2014, previously served on the board
of the Cass County Youth Commission from 2012 thru 2020,
and developed the Community Supervision Unit (CSU) in
2017. Andrew has also served on various advisory boards
with the National Sheriffs’ Association, Rasmussen
College Criminal Justice Program, and with
several local stakeholder agencies in the Fargo area.
Andrew oversees all operations of the Cass County Jail,
ensuring the safety and security of staff and inmates.
Andrew plans for future needs of the jail and
manages the facility budget.
Andrew also coordinates with the courts, law
enforcement agencies, service providers, and
stakeholders to address any needs that arise.
ANDREW FROBIG
Corrections Captain

Cass County Jail Summary
2023 was a busy and challenging year for the Jail facility and the staff assigned to care for the inmates. As the
challenges of COVID waned, we were relieved to be able to further reduce restrictions and precautions, and still
maintain screening measures that identified total cases in the low double digits. And, we again experienced no
deaths or hospitalizations due to COVID.
Capacity issues and staffing vacancies were the biggest challenges of 2023. The average daily population for the
year increased by nearly 40 inmates per day (+15%), and with daily arrests and releases keeping us close to actual
capacity, we were forced to maintain modified intake/arrest restrictions for most of the year. Capacity issues at jails
throughout North Dakota also limited the availability of bed space that we could rent for housing our prisoners.
The completion of the new booking area in late 2022 turned out to be just in time, as on some occasions our
housing areas were completely full and we held new arrests in the booking area for longer periods of intake. It
was also a blessing to have expanded capability to safely supervise and monitor intoxicated individuals and those
that are suicidal. During 2023, we had 323 placements on suicide watch, all of which were held in the booking
cells for close observation and represented 5% of the total intakes – an unprecedented number that we have never
experienced before. This was a challenge that our dedicated and professional staff faced without hesitation and
with 100% success.
During 2023, our recruiting team attended 28 different Job and Career Fairs. Nationwide, law enforcement is
experiencing difficulties in obtaining law enforcement interest and employment. In 2023, the Cass County Jail
reached vacancies as high as 25 at times and struggled to drop below 15. We experienced 28 resignations and 4
terminations throughout the year, which required a tremendous amount of overtime to ensure that we continued
to fulfill our mission and staffed all posts. We hired and trained 35 new employees and offered sessions of CO
Basic Training in January, March, May, July, September and October. Cass County Jail continued the practice of
offering that training free of charge to other counties. Four of our correctional staff obtained their Peace Officer
License this year, we promoted 5 staff internally, 3 earned promotions into other divisions of the Sheriff ’s Office,
and another 5 staff were selected for transfer to other divisions and positions.
Jail staff submitted just shy of 120 reports for prosecution due to criminal conduct of inmates in the jail. We
conducted nearly 500 trips for medical care from outside providers and 25 hospital admissions for medical reasons.
Also, in 2023 our jail achieved full compliance during annual inspections by the ND Dept. of Corrections, the US
Marshal’s Service, and the Federal Bureau of Prisons, and also passed our third audit for compliance with the
Prison Rape Elimination Act (PREA). The FBI also held their mandatory auditing of Criminal Justice Information
System compliance.
Several new projects began in 2023. Two new outreach programs for Veterans were introduced, and a new state
warrant system was implemented. Several facility physical plant upgrades were completed and the training
room received a refresh and upgrade of equipment. We completed a comprehensive cost study and presented
findings to the County Commission so they could consider future per diem rates for housing prisoners from other
jurisdictions, and we worked to update and renew those housing contracts. During the summer, construction
began on a housing expansion which will include 192 more beds, additional inmate programming space, and new
office and clinical space to accommodate the growing medical needs of our inmate population.
The staff at the jail continued to demonstrate their commitment and capacity to adapt. They successfully met every
challenge, provided quality mentoring to many new staff, and navigated a year packed with inspections and audits
by outside agencies. They faced a rare convergence of annual, 3-year, and 5-year inspections and audits occurring
at once, during a year in which every tracked metric and statistic was higher than ever, and collectively achieved
their mission from every possible perspective.

SAFETY | SECURE | RESPEC
Cass County Jai
It is the mission of the Cass County Jail to provide a safe and sec
inmates or detainees in compliance with standards set forth
the North Dakota Administrative Jail Rules. The primary goal
County citizens by detaining lawfully committed inmates i
manner as possible.
The jail will be managed in a manner that will foster a posi
inmate population with the expectation that mutual respect
accomplished by employing well-trained and motivated staff
plant and providing inmate programs that will offer them an
for eventual reintegration into their communities. Inmates w
Incentive for good behavior is provided through a classifi
behavior. We will strive toward the goal that inmates will
condition as when they arrived.

ail Mission
nd secure confinement for lawfully committed
t forth by the North Dakota Century Code and
y goal of the jail is to provide the safety of Cass
ates in the most efficient and cost-effective
a positive atmosphere between the staff and
spect will be displayed at all times. This will be
d staff, maintaining a safe and secure physical
em an opportunity to help prepare themselves
ates will be held accountable for their actions.
lassification system that will reward positive
s will leave this facility in the same or better
PECT | PROGRAMS
corrections | mission

JAIL POPULATION | VISITATION | MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES
JAIL POPULATION 2022 2023
corrections | jail
Average Daily Population 284 322
Highest Population 319 357
Lowest Population 223 294
ALTERNATIVE JAIL POPULATION 2023
Average Daily Population: CSU Program 15
Average Daily Population:
Housed in Other Facilities Under Contract 14
-Highest Population Housed in Other Facilities 27
-Total Placements 137
Average Daily Population: State Hospital 7
-Highest Population House in State Hospital 12
-Total Number Placed Two Days or Longer 2
JAIL TOTAL INTAKES 2022 2023
Total Intakes 6,217 6,140
-Male 74% 69%
-Female 26% 31%
AVERAGE LENGTH OF STAY 2023
Posted Bail or Released After Court Appearance w/in 3 Days 3,215
Served an Average of 32 Days 2,643
Served Average of 82 Days | In Custody at the End of the Year 282
TOTAL DAYS SERVED 2022 2023
Total Days Served 111,217 134,313
VISITATION TOTALS FOR INMATES 2022 2023
Visitation On-Site 8,647 4,666
Via Remote Visit 2,795 1,540
CLINICAL MENTAL HEALTH ASSESSMENTS 2022 2023
Total Referral for Mental Health Assessments 10,747 12,736
Total Contacts for Mental Health Assessments 12,177
Released Before They Could be Seen by CMHC 553
Total Referral to Psychiatry 1,254

24-7 SOBRIETY PROGRAM
The 24/7 Sobriety Program has been in operation in North Dakota since January 2008.
Participation in the 24/7 Sobriety Program may be ordered through the court as a condition
of bond, pre-trial release; or as a condition of sentence or probation, for any violation where
drugs or alcohol may be involved, cases involving domestic abuse, or abuse/neglect of a
child.
An individual may also get approval through the ND Department of Transportation to
volunteer and participate in the 24/7 Sobriety Program to obtain a temporary restricted
driver’s license.
An individual arrested for a second or subsequent DUI is required as a condition of bond, to
refrain from alcohol use, and report to a specific law enforcement location to be placed in the
24/7 Sobriety Program for alcohol testing. If the individual fails a test, they are immediately
taken into custody. If the arrestee fails to show for testing, bond is revoked.
2022 2023
SCRAM Bracelet 258 245
Drug Patch 325 328
Daily Breath Testing 303 286
Remote Breath Testing 58 64
SCRAM Ankle Bracelet Days Monitored 34,203 32,996
Daily Compliance Rate 99% 99%
Remote Breath Testing Days Monitored 7,342 8,956
Daily Compliance Rate 95% 93%
Lieutenant Tommy Ray began his career in 2008 as a line-level correctional officer, where he was
responsible for supervising inmates legally incarcerated inside the Cass County Jail. In 2010,
Tommy was promoted to the rank of Corporal in the jail and was later promoted to Sergeant of jail
operations. Tommy was made the Correctional Emergency Response Team (CERT) Commander.
CERT’s responsibilities include high-risk inmate movement, cell extraction of high-risk inmates,
and disturbance control. Tommy also worked as the intake operations sergeant responsible for
supervising new arrivals to the facility, court communications with the jail, victim
notification, and inmate management. Tommy is the lead Defensive Tactics
Instructor, Use of Force Instructor, and Riot Control Team Lead. Tommy was
reassigned as one of the Court Transport Sergeants, and his responsibilities
included supervision of Courthouse and Annex security, courtroom security,
and transports.
In 2021, Tommy was promoted to Lieutenant as the Assistant. Jail
Administrator of Jail Operations. He is responsible for inmate
management, shift sergeants, and the classification and programs
sergeant. Tommy coordinates facility maintenance needs and
manages compliance with all state and federal operation standards.
Tommy collaborates as a vendor liaison to ensure compliance with
existing agreements for food services, medical services, and inmate
communications.
Tommy Ray
Corrections Lieutenant
corrections | jail

community supervision unit | csu
Mission
To provide effective supervision of participants in a comm
the individual defendant and ensuring that they are conn
Goal
To reduce recidivism by identifying needs and working to
Focus
We focus on four pillars of a needs-based continuum—
Treatment for unaddressed or under-addressed behavio
other factors where assistance and connection will impro
Participants may live at home under house arrest, wit
employment. Participants may be registered and admitte
program. Perhaps a solution somewhere in the middle is ap
available in the community and the identified needs of th

a community setting. We accomplish this by identifying certain needs of
re connected with services that will assist in meeting those needs.
king to overcome barriers to progress and success.
nuum—Housing, Employment, Transportation, and
ehavioral health concerns. We also seek to identify
ll improve outcomes.
st, with permission to travel for certain needs or
dmitted into a residential drug or alcohol treatment
dle is appropriate. We are limited only by the services
ds of the participant.

community supervision unit | csu
PURPOSE OF THE CSU PROGRAM
Launched in April of 2018, the Community Supervision Program (CSU) allows participants
to serve a sentence in a community setting as an alternative to incarceration.
Participants must meet specific qualifications and be sentenced to all local charges
with no outstanding warrants or holds for other jurisdictions.
Pretrial participation is based on bond conditions set forth by the court of jurisdiction.
Candidates are screened and assessed for risk of violence, risk to abscond, and risk of
non-compliance.
Those selected are required to comply with program requirements, to remain lawabiding,
and must wear a GPS ankle bracelet.
There are no daily fees for participation, but other court-ordered programs, such as
alcohol and drug monitoring, may require payment of certain fees.
Participants are required to actively participate in setting goals, actively pursue progress
on their goals, and must maintain regular contact with their supervising deputy.
In return for active participation and compliance with program standards, all time
served in good standing while on this program is counted as time served toward the
entire sentence.
Lieutenant Chad Violet serves as an Assistant Jail Administrator at the Cass County
Jail. Chad began his career with the Cass County Sheriff ’s Office in 2002, working as
a Correctional Officer in the new Cass County Jail. In 2009 Chad was promoted to a
Corporal Shift Supervisor for two years until he took over
the Work Release Program and 24-7 Program. In 2018
CSU was developed in place of the Work Release Program.
Chad began supervision of the CSU program. The CSU
Program encompasses the 24/7 Program along with
two Deputies supervising inmates on an intensive GPS
program. In 2019 Chad was promoted to Sergeant.
In 2021 Chad was promoted to the rank of
Lieutenant as an Assistant Jail Administrator.
Chad supervises the administrative sergeants
and day to day administrative operations of
the jail. Chad also serves as the facility PREA
Coordinator.
CHAD VIOLET
Corrections Lieutenant

Community Supervision Unit 2022 2023
Total Participants 127 154
Success Rate of Completing CSU 71.17% 74.03%
Participants Attending a Treatment Program 70 111
Success Rate of Completing CSU 68.57% 70.27%
Pretrial Participants (Did Not Post Bond) 78 91
Total Jail Bed Days Saved 5,765 5,436
In 2022, 68.57% of participants had no recidivism within a
year of completing the program.
*2023 recidivism statistics will not be calculated until 2024.
PARTICIPANT ACCOUNTABILITY
Participants are considered “in-custody” while serving their time in this program. Supervising deputies are
empowered to make discretionary decisions on a case-by-case basis in situations of willful non-compliance. At
the low end, a participant may be subject to increased or more intensive supervision. In more serious cases of
non-compliance, a participant can be removed and placed back in jail, either as an intermediate and temporary
measure or to serve the remainder of their sentence.
Participants are sentenced to the custody of the Sheriff’s Office, even while serving time under Community
Supervision. In cases where a participant fails to maintain contact or absconds completely, escape charges are
possible and likely.
Participants who remain compliant are rewarded with direct assistance in connecting to and receiving necessary
services, credit for time served, and the opportunity to improve their lives by addressing the contributing
factors to their involvement in the criminal justice system. Successful participants will complete their sentence
knowing that they contributed to their own achievements, hopefully breaking the cycle of criminal behavior
and recidivism.

field services | Patrol
PATROL
The patrol staff takes a pro-active approach to law enforcement with the ultimate goal
of partnering with citizens within our county to prevent crime and violence.
There are four communities, Casselton, Horace, Kindred, and Mapleton, within
Cass County, that contract with the Cass County Sheriff’s Office for increased Law
Enforcement Services.
In an effort to safeguard the rights, lives, and property of the citizens of Cass County,
we have implemented the Adopt-A-Community Program. This program is designed to
increase communication with our rural communities, and build support for proactive
crime prevention.
COUNTY BEATS
Cass County is 1,768 square miles with a
population of approximately 186,562.
Cass County Sheriff’s Office provides
law enforcement services to all of Cass
County.
The 1,768 square miles are divided
into three patrol districts/zones to
strategically place Patrol Deputies
throughout the coverage area to
ensure the quickest response, with
deputies traveling approximately
598,368 miles in 2023 and handling
over 43,000 reported calls for service.

FIELD SERVICES | INVESTIGATIONS
DIVISION COMMANDER
Captain Joel Stading is a 30-year veteran of the Cass County Sheriff ’s Office. He started his career as a correctional
officer at the Cass County Jail in 1991. In 1994, he became a patrol deputy in the Field Service Division and
worked there until 2001, when he moved to the warrant division. In 2011, Joel was
promoted to Detective and joined the Investigations Division, where he worked until
2017. That year, he was promoted to Sergeant of the Warrants - Civil Division.
In 2020, Joel was promoted to Lieutenant and given additional responsibilities for
overseeing the Cass County Court Security and Cass County Inmate Transport
Divisions. In June 2021, he was promoted to the rank of Captain and assigned to the
Investigations Division. Joel was also tasked with investigating all complaints sent to
the Cass County Sheriff ’s Office of Professional Standards and Accountability,
along with handling all open records requests.
In 2023, Joel was reassigned to serve as the Field Services Commander
while still overseeing the Investigative Division, Street Crimes Divsion
and handling all open-record requests the Cass County Sheriff ’s Office
receives.
Joel Stading
Patrol | Investigations Captain
Patrol 2022 2023
Calls for Service 28,334 43,156
Case Reports 1,268 1,469
Traffic Citations/Warnings 4,299 5,802
motor vehicle crashes 187 250
DUI/Refusals 128 153
MIC/MIP 86 82

INVESTIGATIONS SUMMARY
investigations
The Cass County Sheriff’s Office Investigations Division
consists of six investigators, one sergeant, and one division
captain. The investigations division supports the patrol
and corrections divisions with investigative assistance
when requested. Investigators are on call one week out of
every 6 weeks to ensure their availability to assist with any
complex cases needed. Investigators conduct follow-up
investigations on cases from all divisions and citizen web
tips. Investigations assists with a variety of cases to include
assaults, burglaries, unattended deaths, and homicide.
The Investigations Division also coordinates the Sex
Offender Registration Program. In 2023, there was a total
of 32 registered offenders that are monitored by the Cass
County Sheriff’s Office. In 2023, the Cass County Sheriff’s
Office had 254 contacts with the registered offenders
monitored in Cass County.
Investigators assigned to this division also work as members
of the Cass County Drug Task Force, Child Abduction
Response Team (CART), Internet Crimes Against Children
Task Force (ICAC), Forensic Examiner, Fire Investigations,
Elder Abuse, Red River Children’s Advocacy Center, Sexual
Assault Response Team (SART), Human Trafficking Task
Force, Domestic Violence Group, Suicide Review, Prison
Rape Elimination Act Investigations (PREA) and assist with
community education.

CRIMES AGAINST PERSON/PROPERTY/SOCIETY
Investigations Division Classroom Presenation &
Hands-On Training for Citizens Academy Participants

INTERNET CRIMES AGAINST CHILDREN TASK FORCE
investigations
The North Dakota Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force (NDICAC)
continues to be the driving force in the state to combat child sexual
exploitation. NDBCI receives the NDICAC annual grant, which is used for
software, equipment, and training for all law enforcement agencies across
the state. As part of the grant, NDBCI is responsible for all North Dakota
CyberTips received by the National Center for Missing and Exploited
Children (NCMEC). The Cyber Crime Unit received 1570 CyberTips in
2023. Most of these tips are generated by electronic service providers like
Twitter, Snapchat, Facebook, and Google. These CyberTips are received
by the Fargo cyber office, then triaged, prepared, and distributed to
affiliates and NDBCI agents for investigation.
The Cass County Sheriff’s Office has one Detective on assignment with the
North Dakota Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force (NDICACTF)
as a Forensic Computer Examiner that is trained and conducting digital
forensics. This position has an impact on the State of North Dakota and
our community as we continue investigating internet crimes against
children and holding individuals accountable for exploiting our children.
Possession of Certain Materials Prohibited
Gross Sexual Imposition
Disorderly Conduct
Death Investigation (suicide/unattended/overdose)
Case Types - 2023
1
1
5
9
Creation, possesstion, or dissemination of sexually epressive images
2
Corruption or Solicitation of minors
1
Civil
1
Burglary
1
Administrative
1
0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

SEARCH WARRANTS
32 TOTAL SEARCH WARRANTS
TOTAL ARRESTS
231 TOTAL ARRESTS
METRO-AREA STREET CRIMES UNIT
ITEMS SEIZED 2023
Cocaine (grams) 0.5
M30 Pills (Fentanyl) (qty) 1,233
Marijuana (grams) 638
Methamphetamine (grams) 627
Firearms 23
Vehicle 4
Currency $6,519.00
CASS COUNTY DRUG TASK FORCE
2022 2023
Total Search Warrants 56 51
Total Drug Cases: 176 192
ITEMS SEIZED 2022 2023
Cocaine (grams) 124 554
Fentanyl (dose/unit) 40,751 43,028
Heroin (grams) 91 24.30
Marijuana (grams) 11,339 10,836
MDMA (grams) 10 35
Methamphetamine (grams) 4,535 4,557
Psilocybin Mushrooms (grams) 2988
Firearms 20 52
Currency $213,897.00 $245,817.00
US MARSHAL HIGH PLAINS FUGITIVE TASK FORCE
2022 2023
Warrants Served 503 836
Fugitive Arrests 412 655
Firearms Seized n/a 6
Total Drugs Seized (grams) n/a 687
Currency Seized n/a $4,399.00
FEDERAL INTERDICTION UNIT
SEIZED ITEMS 2022 2023
Cocaine (grams) 307 2,862
Counterfeit M30 Pills(grams) 4,085 4,625
Marijuana (grams) 75,525 94,468
Methamphetamine (grams) 4,026 21,169
Fentanyl Powder (grams) 237 958
Marijuana Wax (grams) n/a 7,658
Heroin (grams) n/a 3,149
Psilocybin Mushrooms (grams) n/a 1,542
Other Controlled Substances (grams) n/a 187
Firearms n/a 24
Currency n/a $1,035,264.00
Special Operations

School Resource DEPUTY
SCHOOL RESOURCE DEPUTY PROGRAM
In January of 2008, we placed our first school resource deputy in a rural school setting.
The partnership between our rural school districts and the Cass County Sheriff’s Office
continued to grow into four SRD’s in five school districts.
Issues that affect our rural communities are reflected in students’ needs, just as
school-related issues affect the community as a whole. The presence of carefully
selected and trained school resource deputies represents the essence of community
policing principles. The SRD’s are not only at the schools to improve security but to
build positive relationships between youth and law enforcement and to alleviate
growing community concerns about school safety.
Jason Scott
Central Cass
8 Years
Avery Lock
Maple Valley
1st Year
Joseph Koerber
Kindred
4 Years
Lindsey Nettestad
Northern Cass
3 Years
Joshua Sampson
Mapleton
1st Year
trust | Inspire | Prevention | Response

SCHOOL CONTRACTS | FUNDING
The Cass County Sheriff’s Office and its participating school districts share the School Resource Deputy’s
cost, with 75% of the salary and benefits paid by the participating school districts, and Cass County pays the
remaining 25% of salary and benefits. The Cass County Sheriff’s Office provides each SRD with a fully equipped
squad car, uniforms, equipment, licensing, and training.
Northern Cass:
Central Cass:
Kindred:
Maple Valley:
Mapleton:
$71,509.72 (Full Time)
$71,509.72 (Full Time)
$71,509.72 (Full Time)
$71,509.72 (Full Time)
$35,754.86 (Half Time)
Cass County Deputies partnered with the North Dakota Parks and Rec and held an ATV training course at
Northern Cass School to educate our students on the safe operation of off-road vehicles.
Deputies Joseph Koerber, and Lindsey Nettestad attended the National Association of School Resource Officers
conference in July 2023 for the NASRO advance course. Deputy Josh Sampson attended the same conference
for the NASRO basic course.
The School Resource Deputies assisted with a bicycle safety class for students at Central Cass and in Horace in
the summer of 2023.
The School Resource Deputies partnered with Vision Zero to educate students on how to be a safe driver.
ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES COMMANDER
Captain Tim Briggeman started his employment in 2004 as a correctional deputy and was promoted to the rank
of Corporal in 2007. In January 2008, Tim transferred into field services as a patrol deputy.
In 2013, Tim was promoted to the rank of Corporal and ultimately transferred out of the patrol unit in October
2015, holding the rank of Sergeant. Tim remained in the special projects division overseeing the School Resource
Deputies, Cass Clay Unified School Response coordinator, and served as the public information officer for the
Sheriff ’s Office.
In 2019, Tim was promoted to the rank of Lieutenant and took on additional
responsibilities overseeing the Office of Professional Standards & Accountability
(OPS), along with the Use of Force Committee.
In March of 2021, Tim was promoted to the rank of Captain to serve as the
division commander for patrol. Tim oversaw the patrol division, the School
Resource Division, and the Sheriff ’s Reserve Unit. In 2023, Tim returned to an
administrative role, serving as the division commander overseeing the Office
of Professional Standards & Accountability, the Use of Force Committee,
and the Licensed Roster Deputies. Tim continues to oversee the Sheriff ’s
Reserve Unit, School Resource Deputies and maintains his role as the
public information officer for the Sheriff ’s Office.
Captain Briggeman is a graduate of the FBI National Academy (FBINA),
Session 283, in Quantico, VA.
Tim Briggeman
Administrative Services Captain

SHERIFF RESERVE UNIT
Sheriff Reserve Unit | SRU
The Sheriff’s Reserve Unit (SRU) is composed of up to 10 SRU
Deputies (allotted 15) that are fully uniformed sworn deputies,
under the authority of the Cass County Sheriff. The SRU’s
primary function is working special events, including the Red
River Valley Fair, street dances, barn dances, traffic control,
public appearances, and other tasks as assigned.
In 2023 alone, SRU deputies volunteered over 2,012 hours
between working events and the training requirements saving
the taxpayers $67,605.00.
First-year recruits are expected to go through approximately 90
hours of training in their first year. During this time, the candidate
is not a sworn deputy until after successfully completing the
training program that lasts from December and goes until
graduation in June. At the graduation ceremony, the Sheriff will
swear in the candidates as Cass County Deputies.
We strive to maintain a high level of public safety, integrity,
professionalism, transparency, and training. Our goal is to provide
the best public services to our citizens with a number of resources
available. The Sheriff’s Reserve Unit is fiscally responsible and
saves the citizens of Cass County taxpayer dollars.

HOURS VOLUNEERED
2022 2023
Training Hours 1,124.55 419
Regular Work Hours 329 856
Field Readiness Training (FRT) 307 0
Special Event Hours 1,114.75 737
Total Hours 2,906 2,012
Total Dollars Savings $96,701.72 $67,605.00

CANINE UNIT | K-9
Canine program | K-9
TOTAL DEPLOYMENTS
79
TOTAL TRAINING HOURS
318

CANINE UNIT | K-9
Cass County K9s will be protected while on duty thanks
to receiving a financial gift for body armor:
The Cass County Sheriff’s Office received a financial
gift from Megan Gelinske to further enhance the safety
of our canine program. Both K9 Griggs and K9 Kota are
now outfitted with body armor, allowing an extra level of
protection as they perform their daily law enforcement
duties.
Megan Gelinske has become a vital volunteer at the
Cass County Sheriff’s Office. Megan attended the 2021
Fall Citizens Academy and ever since, has continued to
support the Sheriff’s Office in many ways. We would
like to thank Megan for supporting the Cass County
Sheriff’s Office our K9 program, and partnering with us
to make our community safe.

CITIZENS ACADEMY
CITIZENS ACADEMY
In September, the Cass County Sheriff’s Office held the Cass County Sheriff’s Office
Citizens Academy for 12 consecutive weeks. The course offers classroom presentations
and hands-on training regarding relevant law enforcement topics.
With the completion of the 12-week academy, all participants will have exclusive insight
into the inner workings of the Cass County Sheriff’s Office, Cass County Jail, and law
enforcement in general. The program is designed to gain insight into the functions and
responsibilities of the Cass County Sheriff’s Office while bridging the gap and fostering
a relationship with our citizens.

CITIZENS ACADEMY

RED RIVER VALLEY SWAT
Rrv special weapons tactical team
The Red River Valley Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) team is comprised of multijurisdictional
law enforcement officers from the Cass County Sheriff’s Office, Clay
County Sheriff’s Office, Fargo Police Department, Moorhead Police Department,
West Fargo Police Department, NDSU Police Department, and medics from Sanford
Ambulance and Sanford Air Med. Chief Deputy Dean Haaland is the Cass County
Sheriff’s Office representative on the Red River Valley SWAT executive board, which
oversees the team and makes decisions on its function. To take on these potential
issues, the Red River Valley SWAT Team is made up of three specialized units.
SPECIAL WEAPONS | TACTICAL TEAM | SWAT
The Tactical Team is utilized to assist with serving highrisk
search warrants, dangerous fugitive apprehension,
barricaded individuals, hostage incidents, VIP
protection, large event security, and other incidents
deemed high risk through a risk assessment. The
Tactical Team has additional capabilities such as Snipers,
Less Lethal Munitions, breaching tools/techniques,
advanced technology to include robots and drones,
and armored vehicles. These special weapons and tactics are used to mitigate risk as
much as possible and assist in resolving highrisk
incidents in a safe manner to reduce the risk
of injury to innocent civilians, law enforcement
officers, and suspects. In addition, the Tactical
Team also employs six tactical medics provided
by Sanford Ambulance and Sanford Air Med.
These highly trained medics deploy with the
Tactical Team to provide medical care to citizens
and team members, when necessary, in an
expeditious manner.
The Tactical Team trains twice each month, focusing on tactics, equipment use, mission
planning, safety priorities, and firearm proficiency.
The Cass County Sheriff’s Office currently has
three members on the Tactical Team. In 2023,
The Tactical Team was deployed 24 times.
The Red River Valley SWAT Team also provides
education to the general public when requested
for different community events. Throughout
2023, the Red River Valley SWAT Team’s
members participated in various educational
events where members of the public could view
various pieces of equipment and vehicles and ask questions of current team members.
In order to further engage with the community we serve, members of the Red River
Valley SWAT Team have participated in events such as the Friday Night 5k and the
Special Olympics Polar Plunge.

RED RIVER VALLEY CRISIS NEGOTIATION TEAM
The Crisis Negotiations Team (CNT) is often utilized in conjunction
with the Tactical Team during search warrants, barricaded
individuals, and hostage situations. Collaborating with the
Tactical Unit, the Negotiations Unit works to ensure the safe
resolution of high-risk and critical incidents.
The Crisis Negotiation Team undergoes monthly team training focused on active listening,
communication skills, and communication technology. Every member is an experienced
officer who brings professionalism and compassion to these roles. In addition to regular team
training, the negotiators actively participate in regional and national events to stay updated
on current best practices and maintain proficiency with the latest communication technology.
In 2023, the Crisis Negotiations Team welcomed three new members, filling positions from the
Cass County Sheriff’s Office, West Fargo Police Department, and the Fargo Police Department.
The Cass County Sheriff’s Office currently has two members on the Crisis Negotiations Team.
In 2023, the Crisis Negotiations Team was deployed 16 times to provide support to the Tactical
Unit and other metro law enforcement agencies during high-risk and critical incidents.
Beyond deployments, members of the Red River Valley SWAT Crisis Negotiations Team
showcased their expertise by presenting a case study at the First Annual Minnesota Crisis
Negotiations Conference. They also represented the team at various community engagement
events in the metro area and conducted presentations for community members, shedding
light on the roles and responsibilities of the Negotiations Unit. The dedicated efforts of the
Negotiations Unit underscore their commitment to public safety and effective crisis resolution.
RED RIVER VALLEY REGIONAL BOMB TEAM
The Red River Valley Regional Bomb Squad is utilized to safely recover and dispose of energetic
materials in the community, as well as responding to suspicious items/packages that could
contain dangerous materials. The Bomb Team may also be utilized in conjunction with the
other teams during large-scale incidents, where they may be able to assist with technological
needs or when dangerous items are present. The Bomb Team has specialized technology
that includes an x-ray machine and bomb robots, necessary to assist in assessing all different
kinds of materials to assess their level of danger, as well as storing and disposing of energetic
materials.
The Bomb Team trains twice a month to enhance the knowledge and proficiency of all
team members to safely deal with scenarios they may be presented within our community.
Each Bomb Team member is highly trained in the diffusion of
explosives and incendiary devices.
The Bomb Team also provides education to the general public
during different community events. Throughout 2023, Bomb
Team members participated in various educational events where
members of the public could view various pieces of equipment
and ask questions of current team members.
The Cass County Sheriff’s Office currently has one member
assigned to the Bomb Team. In 2023, the Red River Regional
Bomb Team was deployed 45 times.
rrv negotiations | bomb team

LICENSED ROSTER UNIT
licensed roster UNIT
Cass County Sheriff’s Office has ten (10) deputies assigned
to the Licensed Roster Unit working on a part-time status
to assist in covering extra events throughout the Fargo,
West Fargo, and rural Cass County communities. These
deputies currently hold a North Dakota Peace Officer
License and cover extra events, which in turn alleviates
the need for our current full-time staff to work in an
overtime capacity. With the increase in special event
coverage throughout Cass County, hiring deputies at a
part-time status allowed our agency to better serve our
community’s needs in an effort to achieve the overall
goal of public safety.

TRAINING | EDUCATION
The Training Division supports the mission, vision, and values of the Cass County
Sheriff’s Office as they enhance public safety by providing a high level of training to
excel as an organization. The Training Division ensures that the Cass County Sheriff’s
office aligns with the national best practices in the policing profession, ND POST
requirements, along with ND State Statues.
Below is a list of training provided, but not limited to staff in 2023:
• Disciplinary Case Law Update
• Jail Incident Training
• Weapons Manipulation Training
• De-Escalation Training
• 1st Quarter Shoot
• ALICE Train the Trainer Course
• Tactical Handgun Manipulation
• CPR | First Aid
• Suicide Prevention
• Body Scanner Training
• Cell Search Training
• Use of Forece Training
• Introduction to Explosives
• Defensive Tactics
• NCIC & CJIS Training
• 2nd Quarter Shoot
• Open Shoots
• CPR Recertification
• Mobile Field Force & Gas Mask Training
• Active Threat Response Training
• Taser Recertification
• OC Recertificaton
• Drive the Road-Leadership Training
• State Firearm Qualificatons
• Native American Best Practices
• Blood Borne Pathogens
• Burnout Training
• 4th Quarter Shoot
• Back-up Pistol Qualificatons
• Alzheimer’s Awareness Course
• Pre-Services Corrections Academy
training | education

promotions | 2023
TRAVIS MCNAMARA NICK PESTEL JOANNA MATHURIN
CLAY MOODY TYLER BECKIUS JESSE QUITTSCHREIBER
NOLAN MAIER WYATT BECKER KALE PETERSON
ADAM BOLL
AVERY NYSTEL

RETIREMENT | 2023
JEFF OLSON
1995-2023
Corporal Jeff Olson served the citizens of Cass County for 28 years and
served the citizens of North Dakota for 37 years.
Corporal Olson started his career with the Grafton Police Department in
December 1990. In 1991, he was hired by the Grand Forks County Sheriff’s
Office, where he worked until 1995. In 1995, he began employment with
the Cass County Sheriff’s Office. Jeff has spent time in different divisions
within our organization but spent most of his time in civil/warrants and
training.
retirement | 2023
The Cass County Sheriff’s Office is honored and proud of everything
Corporal Olson accomplished while keeping our community safe.

awards| 2022 service

awards | 2022 service

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