Williston Names Steven Gutknecht New Chief Of Police

The City of Williston officially welcomed its new Chief of Police on June 5, 2025, as the Williston City Commission appointed Steven Gutknecht to the position during a special meeting. The decision follows the departure of former Chief David Peterson, who stepped down in May.

Mayor Klug Stresses Swift Action to Maintain Public Confidence in Police Department

Mayor Howard Klug emphasized the importance of acting swiftly to reassure the public. “I wanted to move quickly to make sure that the public received the assurance that their police department was dedicated as always to providing for their safety,” Klug stated. “With the appointment today, it shows that the Williston Police Department will continue to provide the services that our community deserves.”

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Veteran Lawman with Deep Local Ties Takes Helm as Williston's Police Chief

Gutknecht has been serving as interim chief since December 2024 and brings over 30 years of law enforcement experience to the role. A native of Minot, North Dakota, he relocated to Williston in 1996 and has since become a trusted and well-known figure in the region’s public safety community.

From Drug Task Force to BCI Leader: Gutknecht Brings Decades of Investigative Experience

His career began in 1993 on a drug task force, where he gained early experience in criminal investigations and narcotics enforcement. Gutknecht spent the next two decades with the North Dakota Bureau of Criminal Investigation (BCI), ultimately serving as Supervisory Special Agent. In 2019, he joined the Williston Police Department as Investigations Captain.

City Administrator Shawn Wenko praised Gutknecht’s leadership over the past several months. “Since stepping into the role of Interim Police Chief in December 2024, Steve Gutknecht has provided steady and effective leadership during a pivotal time for our department,” Wenko said. “His experience and commitment to public safety have been evident throughout his tenure. I am confident that under his continued guidance, the Williston Police Department will thrive.”

As Chief of Police, Gutknecht is expected to build on the department’s commitment to safety, service, and community trust as Williston continues to grow.