Dave Draovitch has been selected by the Bismarck City Commission to serve as Bismarck’s Chief of Police. Draovitch was one of three candidates interviewed for the position. He is a graduate of Minot State University and has over 3,700 hours of POST Board approved law enforcement training. Draovitch has over 29 years of experience with the Bismarck Police Department. As Bismarck’s Police Chief, Draovitch will be responsible for directing all operations of the Police Department and advising the City Administrator and City Commission on law enforcement matters.

Draovitch said, “I am very grateful for the opportunity to serve the citizens of Bismarck in this new capacity.  I value the positive relationship the Police Department has with our citizens and we will continue to provide excellent law enforcement services to our community. I appreciate the confidence of the City Commission in my abilities and the opportunity to serve as Bismarck’s next Police Chief.”

Mayor Steve Bakken was pleased with the caliber of all the candidates interviewed. “Deputy Chief Draovitch definitely was one of, if not the most, qualified candidate as was indicated by his scores on the general management in basket assessment and accomplishment survey results. He interviewed very well with the City Commission.” Mayor Bakken also acknowledged the effectiveness of the nationwide search for quality candidates that was conducted by the City Human Resource and Administration department staff.

Keith Hunke, City Administrator was very happy with the City Commission’s decision to offer Deputy Chief Draovitch the opportunity to be our next Chief of Police. “I’ve seen Dave’s work personally over the last several years in my role as assistant city administrator and city administrator.” “No one works harder. No one reads more. And no one has a greater breadth of experience to be our next Chief of Police.”

Draovitch replaces Chief Dan Donlin who announced his forthcoming retirement earlier this year. For more information, visit www.bismarcknd.gov