Police News Releases

The City of Moorhead is pleased to announce the four finalists for the position of Police Chief, with on-site interviews scheduled for this week. The new Police Chief is expected to be named in March.

The search for a new Police Chief began in late 2024 following the retirement announcement of current Chief Shannon Monroe, who has served the Moorhead community for 30 years. His retirement marks a significant transition for the city, and the selection of a new chief will be a critical step in continuing the department’s strong leadership.

As part of the hiring process, a panel of community and law enforcement members participated in stakeholder interviews with city hiring representatives to provide feedback regarding the needs of the community and how it relates to the position.

John Laddie Bata is an experienced professional with 24 years of law enforcement and military leadership. He began in public service in 2001 and has since worked in the US Army, Minnesota Army National Guard, City of Owatonna, and most recently as Patrol Lieutenant for the City of Moorhead.  He holds a bachelor's in criminal justice from the University of North Dakota and a Master of Public Administration from Minnesota State University.

Erin Dietz began her public service career with the ND Air National Guard. Since then, she has worked her way through the ranks in law enforcement. She ended her service with the Air Guard as a Staff Sergeant. She has served as a Detention Officer with Burleigh County, ND and a Police Officer with the City of Bismarck, ND. She currently works as a Captain of the Support Service Division for the Metro Transit Police Department in Minneapolis. She holds a bachelor’s in criminal justice from Minot State University as well as a Master's Degree in Criminal Justice Leadership from Concordia University.

Chris Helmick has served in law enforcement with the City of Fargo since 2001. He holds the rank of Captain and has been assigned to the Criminal Investigation Division, Neighborhood Services Division as well as the Professional Standards Division where he serves currently. Additionally, he has served as Lieutenant, for the Criminal Investigations Division and Neighborhood Services Division. He holds a Bachelor of Criminal Justice from Minnesota State University-Moorhead and is a graduate of the FBI National Academy.

Matthew Brukbacher is currently a Commander leading the Special Operations Bureau with the City of Aurora, CO Police Department where he’s worked since 2023. He began his career in law enforcement as a police officer with the City of Aurora in 2000 and has since served as a Patrol and Special Assignment Sergeant, Emergency Response Team Deputy- Commander, Emergency Response Team Special Operations Lieutenant and a District Commander. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice- Law Enforcement from Winona State University.