Feds reveal plan to confront Fargo’s violent crime problem

FARGO, N.D. (KVRR) – Federal law enforcement authorities in Fargo announced a plan on Tuesday to tackle a significant rise in violent crimes.

U.S. Attorney Mac Schneider says the three-part plan will address an approximate 45% increase in violent crime since 2019.

Schneider says the plan uses local intelligence information and federal resources to confront gangs and organized criminals before they take hold in the community.

“This initiative is all about using new federal resources as a force multiplier to assist our local law enforcement partners in targeting the relatively few individuals who drive violent crime in Fargo and Cass County,” Schneider said.

“With a forceful prosecution strategy that is focused on felons in possession of firearms and dismantling gangs and other criminal organizations before they take root in the community, we can help keep the Fargo area safe as it continues to grow.”

“Taking a multifaceted approach, utilizing available resources, and concentrating those efforts on local, state, and federal levels will have a profound impact,” according to Cass County Sheriff Jesse Jahner.

“The launch of the SAFFER Initiative will provide the necessary tools and partnerships needed to bring justice to our citizens and victims while holding those responsible accountable for their actions.”