DEVILS LAKE, ND (WDAZ-TV) - City leaders in Devils Lake are hoping changes to their police force will start at the top.
It's at the city offices in Devils Lake where the city commission is interviewing candidates for police chief. The questions focused heavily on how the department can move forward after firing the top two cops.
After the former captain and chief were fired, city leaders asked each of the 3 candidates if they think a lieutenant/captain position is a necessity.
Several officers revealed in an internal review that Captain John Barnett often slept on the job, and former chief Keith Schroeder didn't stop him. The city is looking for something different.
After one candidate dropped out of the running, three now remain...
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- Joseph Knowski, former North Dakota Highway Patrol Sergeant
- Steve Rohrer, current Benson County Sheriff
- Barry Vannatta, Kidder County Sheriff
Richard Johnson, mayor: "For sure we're looking for someone who's a good strong leader. Who's great leadership. And gets respect from the community and his department."
City leaders discussed more oversight of officers, including a possible time tracking log. The city commission also expects a new chief to get to know people living in Devils Lake.
Johnson: "Sometimes you see people been in for a number of years and just through the process you kind of lose your passion. We went with passion and desire for the job."
The city commission could make a decision as early as Monday.
The Benson County Auditor says the appointment of the sheriff could leave that position open, depending on the number of days left in the term, and possibly require a special election to fill it.
