Fargo, N.D. – Fargo’s police chief is sharing concerns after learning a suspect accused of punching out three of his officers downtown this month was released early from prison for a violent offense without any notification.
During an interview on The Flag’s What’s On Your Mind, Chief David Zibolski says he had a recent phone conversation with Colby Braun, the head of North Dakota Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation about the case of Joseph Manitowabi.
The 37-year old from Fargo was previously arrested in 2023 and sentenced to two years in prison after a violent assault conviction.
Zibolski says Braun informed him that Manitowabi was let out of prison early back in April based on time served, and for completing 85-perent of his sentence based on “statutory guidelines.”
Manitowabi was also freed without being placed on parole or probation.
Listen: Fargo Police Chief David Zibolski appears on The Flag’s ‘What’s On Your Mind?’
“It’s a little disconcerting to say the least on the whole process,” said Zibolski. “Obviously that’s what they’re following.”
The chief, who says he couldn’t find the exact guideline language that was referenced by Braun, also said his officers were unaware that Manitowabi was back in the city.
Zibolski says he proposed to Braun about coming up with a plan to inform local police departments in such early release cases.
“That gives situational awareness to our cops,” said Zibolski. “Because currently, if they’re not on parole or probation we don’t get any notice.”
