Minot, ND — The search for Minot’s next police chief took another turn as Dr. Richard Rosell formally withdrew his candidacy from consideration, citing concerns about internal dynamics and recent revelations surrounding the city’s former police leadership.
The Dakotan obtained an email to MGT’s Jon Fehlman, the firm assisting the City of Minot with its Police Chief recruitment process, dated Sunday, May 18, where Rosell explained that over the weekend, he came across web articles that had not been available when he initially applied. According to Rosell, the content of those articles revealed that the person allegedly responsible for launching the external investigation that ultimately led to the previous chief’s departure is now a candidate for mayor.
“I do not think the job would be a good fit for me, particularly if he were to win,” Rosell wrote. “His malcontents in the agency who provided him with the information that started the ball rolling would now have a direct channel to the top, something which I would not tolerate.”
Rosell, the owner of Rosell Group LLC, went on to express appreciation for being considered but stated clearly: “I would like to withdraw from contention.”
In response, Minot City Council member and mayoral candidate Rob Fuller issued a statement Monday acknowledging Rosell’s withdrawal while defending the investigative process that has shaped recent leadership changes in the police department.
“Mr. Rosell’s decision to withdraw from consideration is his to make, and I respect his right to do so,” Fuller said. “That said, if his concern is that I asked tough questions, demanded accountability, and stood up for what was right when the leadership of our police department failed — then I accept that criticism without apology.”
Fuller emphasized that the internal investigation into the previous police chief was not politically motivated but stemmed from serious concerns validated by a third-party review. “Minot deserves leadership that’s unafraid of transparency and committed to integrity,” he said, “not someone who sees those things as threats to their command structure.”
With Rosell’s withdrawal, three finalists remain in the running to lead the Minot Police Department. The selection process continues Wednesday, May 28 with a public forum for the final three candidates.
