Moorhead Police Department recruits sixth cadet class with focus on diversity

The City of Moorhead's Human Rights Commission meeting on May 21, 2025, featured a significant update from Lieutenant Beta of the Moorhead Police Department regarding ongoing recruitment efforts and departmental changes. The meeting highlighted the integration of a new police chief and the successful collaboration of two key programs aimed at diversifying the police force.

Lieutenant Beta reported that the Cadet Program and the ICE POET Program have recently merged efforts to enhance recruitment. The Cadet Program, unique to Moorhead, focuses on local candidates, while the ICE POET Program is a statewide initiative funded by grants. Both programs aim to attract new officers and reflect the community's diversity. Currently, six candidates are undergoing training at Alexandria Technical College, with two being Kurdish and two female candidates, one of whom is Hispanic. This focus on diversity is crucial for the department, as it seeks to better represent the community it serves.

The Lieutenant emphasized the importance of these programs in not only filling vacancies but also in enriching the department's cultural competency. He noted that interest from local law enforcement students at Minnesota State University Moorhead (MSUM) and M State has been strong, indicating a positive trend in community engagement with law enforcement careers.

In response to questions about recruitment outreach, Lieutenant Beta confirmed that information is available on the police department's website and Facebook page. The department has dedicated resources to recruitment, including a full-time administrative sergeant who actively engages with potential candidates.

The ICE POET Program, which targets nontraditional students with four-year degrees, was also discussed. This program allows individuals from various academic backgrounds to transition into law enforcement through specialized training. Lieutenant Beta explained that participants undergo a comprehensive training regimen at Alexandria Technical College, culminating in practical skills development.

Overall, the meeting underscored the Moorhead Police Department's commitment to enhancing its workforce through targeted recruitment and training initiatives. As the department continues to evolve, these programs are expected to play a vital role in fostering a more inclusive and effective law enforcement presence in the community. The commission looks forward to further updates on these initiatives and their impact on local policing.