Police News Releases

On Thursday, July 6, the City of Moorhead Police Department (MPD) formally recognized two promotions.

• Sgt. John “Laddie” Bata has been promoted to lieutenant. Bata began his career with the Owatonna Police Department in 2009 and has been with the MPD since 2015.  During his career he has served in numerous roles including patrol sergeant, firearms instructor, defensive tactics instructor, Explorer advisor, crime scene technician, field training officer, and narcotics detective.

• Officer Michelle Voeltz has been promoted to sergeant. Voeltz began her career with the Dickinson Police Department in 2007 and has been with the MPD since 2019. She is the first female sergeant in the MPD’s 142-year history. During her career she has been a SWAT operator, crime scene investigator, evidence manager, special response team operator, tactical medical instructor, law enforcement instructor, field training officer, and defensive tactics instructor. She has received two life-saving medals.

Congratulations!