FARGO – The North Dakota Peace Officers Association NDPOA is holding its annual conference in Fargo, bringing together law enforcement officers from across the state. This event honors their service and remembers those who have died in the line of duty. The NDPOA, which started as the Sheriffs’ Association in 1911, now represents the entire criminal justice system in North Dakota.
At this year’s conference, U.S. Senator Kevin Cramer R-ND spoke about the need to support and protect officers who risk their lives to serve their communities. I’m always impressed by your bravery and integrity, and many people may not realize just how compassionate you are, Cramer said. Law enforcement policies should focus on officers like you, so you can best protect and serve your communities. That’s why I support programs like the Regional Information Sharing Systems, where Washington supports the programs you manage. We strive to improve in North Dakota, but you’ve made us the best, and we don’t take your service for granted.
Senator Cramer has supported key legislation to ensure officers have the resources and protections they need. In May, he gave a speech during National Police Week to honor Fargo Police Officer Zachary Robinson, the first officer from North Dakota to receive the prestigious TOP COP award.
The Regional Information Sharing Systems RISS Program helps law enforcement agencies share intelligence and ensure officer safety. In Fiscal Year 2024, Congress allocated $44 million to this program, which is managed locally but funded by Congress.
Additionally, Senator Cramer joined Senator Thom Tillis R-NC in supporting the Protect and Serve Act, which would create federal penalties for those who assault law enforcement officers, giving prosecutors stronger tools to address these crimes.