Bismarck, N.D. – The City of Bismarck has selected Jason Stugelmeyer as its next police chief, with his appointment officially taking effect on August 1. The Bismarck City Commission unanimously approved the recommendation during its regular meeting on July 22, following a hiring panel’s endorsement.
Stugelmeyer, a 24-year veteran of the Bismarck Police Department (BPD), currently serves as deputy chief. He was promoted to that position in 2018 after then-Deputy Chief Dave Draovitch took over as chief following Dan Donlin’s retirement.
Commissioner John Risch, who oversees the police portfolio, praised Stugelmeyer’s qualifications and leadership. “Our community is extremely fortunate to have such a qualified person to head our police department,” Risch said. “He’s a seasoned professional, and I’ve personally seen his responsiveness to citizen concerns.”
Stugelmeyer brings extensive experience to the role, including 15 years with the West Dakota SWAT Team. He has received numerous accolades during his career, including the Badge of Hope award (three times), two Meritorious Service Awards, and being named BPD Officer of the Year in 2007. He holds a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice from the University of Minnesota-Moorhead.
The search for a new chief began after Draovitch announced his intention to retire in May. Of the seven applicants who met the qualifications, four advanced to the accomplishment survey and in-basket testing stage. One candidate withdrew prior to testing, and the two remaining finalists — Stugelmeyer and University of North Dakota Patrol Commander Daniel Weigel — were interviewed by the hiring committee on July 17.
City officials expressed confidence that Stugelmeyer will continue to uphold and advance the department’s mission to serve and protect the community.
