Two Watford City Police Officers Honored by North Dakota DOT for Traffic Safety Efforts
Patrice Bumstead
Farmer Editor
Two members of the Watford City Police Department have been formally recognized by the North Dakota Department of Transportation (NDDOT) for their exceptional dedication to traffic safety and their role in supporting the state’s Vision Zero initiative.
Officer Joshua McGoven and Commercial Motor Vehicle Enforcement Officer Jeffrey Jensen each received a Letter of Recognition along with an official NDDOT Traffic Safety Commemorative Challenge Coin, honoring their contributions toward reducing serious crashes and saving lives on North Dakota roadways throughout 2025.
The Vision Zero initiative is a statewide effort aimed at eliminating fatal and serious injury crashes, and local law enforcement agencies play a crucial role in achieving that goal.
Focus on Proactive Enforcement
Officer McGoven was recognized for his active role in targeted enforcement campaigns funded by NDDOT traffic safety grants. His work focused heavily on speeding and seatbelt compliance - two major factors in severe crashes.
During Speed Enforcement grant operations, McGoven logged 25.75 hours, issuing 34 speeding citations out of 35 total citations. In addition, while working Occupant Protection grant enforcement, he dedicated 27.75 hours, issuing 32 seatbelt citations among 35 total citations.
His enforcement efforts were aimed at correcting behaviors known to contribute to serious injuries and fatalities
“Officer McGoven’s work demonstrates the importance of consistent, focused enforcement to influence driver behavior and improve roadway safety,” the department noted.
Extensive Impact in Commercial Vehicle Safety
Officer Jeffrey Jensen’s recognition reflects a broader scope of enforcement and public safety work. Specializing in commercial motor vehicle operations, Jensen conducted inspections throughout the year that uncovered 1,997 violations, resulting in 604 out-of-service conditions.
These actions removed unsafe vehicles and drivers from roadways before incidents could occur, significantly reducing the risk of crashes involving large commercial vehicles.
In addition to inspections, Jensen’s enforcement activity included: 8 DUI arrests, 12 arrests for driving under suspension/revocation, 4 drug possession arrests, 2 arrests for Failure to Register as a Sex Offender.
He also participated in NDDOT-funded campaigns, contributing 34.5 hours toward Speed Enforcement and Occupant Protection operations.
“Officer Jensen’s work highlights the critical role of commercial vehicle enforcement in keeping our highways safe,” the department said, noting the direct impact his efforts have on crash prevention.
Ongoing Commitment to
Roadway Safety
Traffic safety continues to be a major priority for the Watford City Police Department. In 2025 alone, officers investigated eight injury crashes and more than 90 property damage crashes within city limits.
Police Chief Jesse Wellen emphasized that enforcement efforts go far beyond issuing citations - they are fundamentally about protecting lives.
“Every traffic stop, vehicle inspection, DUI arrest, and educational opportunity is ultimately about saving lives,” Wellen said.
He also praised the dedication of both officers and the entire department:
“The work being done by Officers McGoven, Officer Jensen, and the rest of our officers reflects our department’s commitment to keeping our roads safe for everyone who lives, works, and travels through Watford City.”
Looking ahead Chief Wellen reaffirmed the department’s commitment to collaboration with state and local partners to continue improving traffic safety outcomes.
We will continue working with our state and local partners to promote safe driving habits and prevent tragedies before they occur,” he said.
The recognition of Officers McGoven and Jensen underscores the vital role local law enforcement plays in advancing the Vision Zero mission - demonstrating that consistent enforcement, education, and vigilance can make a measurable difference in community safety.