West Fargo Approves $6.5 Million Police Technology Upgrade
Every officer in West Fargo will soon carry a body camera capable of translating live speech into more than 60 languages on the spot, KFGO reported.
The West Fargo City Commission voted unanimously on Monday to approve a 10-year, $6.5 million contract with Axon Enterprise for a sweeping department-wide technology overhaul. The agreement secures new equipment that touches nearly every aspect of daily patrol work, replacing aging systems with modern digital infrastructure.
What the $6.5 Million Purchase Includes
The funding covers a complete retooling of frontline gear, including squad car dash cameras, Tasers, license plate readers, and upgraded interview room systems. Under the new contract, each officer receives a body camera that uploads video straight from the field.
Police Chief Pete Nielsen said the change matches tools used by nearby agencies across the metro area. He noted that the equipment will boost safety, openness, and teamwork while keeping department data secure and local.
The newly acquired body cameras feature an integrated voice assistant designed to help officers manage complex field communication. Beyond live translation across more than 60 languages, the voice tool allows officers to look up department rules and guidelines without taking their eyes off an active call.
City Officials Address Privacy Concerns Regarding License Plate Readers
City officials addressed potential privacy concerns surrounding the new hardware, specifically regarding the newly installed license plate readers. The systems track plates rather than people, and city representatives confirmed that the cameras do not use facial recognition technology or compile personal profiles.
To maintain public trust, the department plans to make system data viewable through an online dashboard.
The rollout of the new equipment is scheduled to begin in the spring of 2027.
