City of Fort Dodge, Iowa

The Patrol Division, led by Division Commander Captain Don McLaren, is comprised of four patrol teams. Each team includes a Shift Commander (Lt.), a Shift Supervisor (Sgt.), and four Patrol Officers. Teams work 12-hour shifts either from 6:00 A.M. to 6:00 P.M. or from 6:00 P.M. to 6:00 A.M. Their jurisdiction covers the corporate limits of Fort Dodge and extends to city-owned properties like the Fort Dodge Airport, Lakeside Golf Course, and Harlan Rogers ballpark.

Key responsibilities of the Patrol Division include:

• Calls for Service: Patrol Officers respond to approximately 45,000 calls annually, ranging from parking complaints to critical emergencies such as traffic collisions and assaults. They conduct initial investigations for nearly all emergency calls in Fort Dodge. Iowa law mandates that drivers involved in accidents causing over $1000.00 in damage or injuries complete an accident report.
• Proactive Patrol: When not responding to calls for service, Patrol Division staff actively seek out traffic violations, criminal activities, and other community concerns.
• Criminal Case Follow-Up: Staff within the Patrol Division handle the majority of criminal cases assigned in Fort Dodge, conducting follow-ups based on their expertise and available resources.
• Crime Prevention: Officers also engage in proactive efforts to address community and neighborhood issues before they escalate into criminal incidents.

To request extra patrol of your property while you are away, click here.