Lincoln, ND — The City of Lincoln is undergoing a significant change in its public safety leadership, following the dismissal of Police Chief Matthew Giddings. Mayor Keli Berglund confirmed Giddings has been stripped of both his title as chief of police and his position as a police officer for the city, according to a letter obtained by news partners KX News. This decision marks a complete separation from the municipal police department for Giddings.
The announcement of this leadership transition was made during the Lincoln City Council meeting on Monday night. City Administrator Lisa Aune informed the council and public that Robin Krile would assume the role of interim police chief for the city. This interim appointment will remain in effect while city officials work to identify and implement a permanent solution for the department’s leadership vacancy. The search for a long-term police chief is now underway for the community of Lincoln.
The departure of Chief Giddings comes amidst a series of detailed reports across various news outlets, outlining several concerns that contributed to his dismissal. According to KX News, these reports include allegations of inappropriate conduct. Additionally, issues surrounding ineffective supervision of field training were cited, pointing to potential deficiencies in how new officers were guided and developed within the Lincoln police force. Further reports, as gathered by KX News, noted an unauthorized hiring and promotion, suggesting breaches of established departmental or city procedures regarding personnel decisions.
An investigation report, referenced by KX News, further elaborated on the reasons behind the action taken against Giddings. The report specifically mentioned "a consistent inability or unwillingness to follow City Policy or Municipal Code, and communicate effectively." This indicates broader concerns about Giddings' adherence to the city’s operational guidelines and his overall communication within the municipal structure. The investigation's findings appear to underscore the decision made by city leadership.
This significant change in the Lincoln Police Department’s command structure occurs against a backdrop of recent recognition for the city. Lincoln, North Dakota, a community directly adjacent to Bismarck, was recently named the safest city to live in all of North Dakota. This distinction was noted in previous reports. The city council and administration now face the task of ensuring continued effective public safety services for their residents while navigating this leadership transition and the search for a permanent police chief. Bismarck Source will continue to monitor developments in this ongoing story from Lincoln.