West Fargo’s annual 2025 report shows slight increase in overall crimes, but some areas show dramatic increases
WEST FARGO, N.D. (KVRR) — The West Fargo Police Department reports that overall crime has increased by 1.5% since 2024. And compared to 2021, the increase is 15%.
“The department saw a slight increase in overall crime in 2025, 1.5% increase for the year. 11% increase in crimes against persons, which would be simple assault stockings. 1.5% increase in crimes against property, but we had a decrease in crimes against society. So, our drugs and weapons offenses have went down some,” said Pete Nielsen, West Fargo Police Chief.
The rise in what police categorize as ‘crimes against persons’ has one category that has increased exponentially: stalking. In 2021, there were 4 cases of stalking, and that number rose to 22 in 2025.
Other crimes, including homicide, kidnapping, and assault, have stayed consistent year by year, with slight decreases and increases.
Nielsen says the department has maintained a strong relationship with its residents to adjust to the community’s needs.
“With the increase in overall crime, the community’s need for law enforcement services continues to grow. As you can see by the annual report, our officers responded to 32,911 calls for services over 2025. That’s a 15% increase since 2021. It was about the same as 2024 when it comes to the overall numbers. So our diversions are very busy when it comes to the calls for service,” said Nielsen.
An area that has seen a decrease in incidents is crimes against property. Those include robberies, shoplifting, theft from a vehicle, and identity theft. Those crimes have been reported to have decreased year by year.
“Our dedicated team of 83 sworn officers, 15 civilian staff, and four part-time CSOs looks forward to serving the community, and they do this with pride and professionalism. The 2025 annual report highlights just some of the hard work and dedication, as you can see,” said Nielsen.
