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5 Critical Updates On The Forest Lake MN Police Department: Tragedies, Leadership, And 2025 Safety Initiatives

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The Forest Lake MN Police Department continues to serve as the primary public safety agency for the city of Forest Lake, Minnesota, operating under the direction of Public Safety Director/Chief of Police Richard R. Peterson. As of December 22, 2025, the department is navigating a period of profound community mourning following the unexpected loss of a highly-regarded detective, while simultaneously maintaining a strong focus on proactive community policing and addressing local crime trends.

The department’s commitment to law enforcement, crime investigation, and public safety services remains steadfast, even as it manages significant personnel and operational challenges in late 2025. The recent events highlight the deep ties between the police force and the greater Forest Lake community, which has rallied to support its officers during a difficult time.

The Forest Lake Police Department Command Staff and Biography

The leadership of the Forest Lake Police Department (FLPD) is helmed by a figure deeply rooted in the local community and with decades of experience in law enforcement.

Richard R. Peterson: Public Safety Director/Chief of Police

Chief Richard R. "Rick" Peterson serves as the Public Safety Director and Chief of Police for the City of Forest Lake.

  • Current Role: Public Safety Director/Chief of Police.
  • Local Roots: Chief Peterson is a graduate of Forest Lake Area Schools, demonstrating a lifelong connection to the community he now serves.
  • Career Progression: His dedication to the department led to his promotion to the rank of Sergeant in 2004.
  • Appointment as Chief: Rick Peterson assumed the role of Chief of Police for Forest Lake in 2011, providing over a decade of consistent leadership.
  • Contact Information: His office phone number is 651-209-9925.

The Chief's local background is a key component of the FLPD's community policing philosophy, fostering trust and familiarity between the department and Forest Lake residents.

A Community Mourns: The Tragic Loss of Detective Josh Brown (2025)

One of the most significant and heartbreaking events for the Forest Lake community and the Police Department in 2025 was the unexpected death of Detective Josh Brown. This tragedy underscores the personal sacrifice and dedication inherent in the law enforcement profession.

Unexpected Passing and Community Response

Forest Lake Police Detective Josh Brown died unexpectedly on August 11, 2025. Detective Brown was a highly valued member of the department, having previously served with the Wyoming, Minnesota Police Department before transferring to the FLPD.

The community's response was immediate and profound:

  • A special procession was organized to honor the fallen officer ahead of his funeral, with the Minnesota community showing immense support.
  • The outpouring of grief and respect highlighted the significant impact Detective Brown had on the lives of both his colleagues and the citizens of Forest Lake.
  • The support extended beyond the department, with a GoFundMe campaign established to assist his family, further demonstrating the strong communal bond in Washington County, MN.

This event serves as a stark reminder of the close-knit nature of the Forest Lake Police Department and the deep respect the public holds for its law enforcement officers.

Current Crime Trends and Public Safety Initiatives

The Forest Lake Police Department is continuously working to maintain public safety and address evolving criminal activity. While the city is often considered a safe community, official data points to specific areas of concern that the department is actively addressing through targeted initiatives.

Analyzing Forest Lake Crime Statistics

According to crime reports, Forest Lake has experienced an overall upward trend in crime over a 16-year period. This trend includes increases in both violent crime and property crime.

Key statistics and areas of focus include:

  • General Crime: The city recorded a total of 619 incidents over a five-year period leading up to 2024.
  • Violent Crime Risk: The chance of being a victim of violent crime in Forest Lake is approximately 1 in 1089.
  • Property Crime Risk: The risk of becoming a victim of property crime, which includes theft, vehicle theft, and burglary, is higher at about 1 in 56.
  • DWI Enforcement: The department maintains a strong focus on traffic safety. Officer Timothy VanGrinsven, for example, was recognized in 2025 for his exceptional service, recording 31 DWI arrests in 2023 alone.

These statistics provide the FLPD with actionable data to deploy resources effectively and focus on crime prevention strategies that directly impact the community.

Key Community Policing and Crime Prevention Programs (2025)

Community partnerships and crime prevention are core components of the Forest Lake Police Department's mission.

  • Annual Night to Unite (2025): The department actively promotes and participates in the Annual Night to Unite, scheduled for Tuesday, August 5, 2025. This event is a crucial part of the community policing strategy, encouraging neighbors to connect and work with law enforcement to prevent crime.
  • Forest Lake Safety Camp: The FLPD coordinates with various public service organizations and area businesses to facilitate the Forest Lake Safety Camp, focusing on safety education for the city’s youth.
  • Police Relief Association: The department's officers volunteer their time for the Police Relief Association, which provides support and assistance, often starting with community events like an annual snowmobile race on Forest Lake.
  • Community Engagement: The department emphasizes its availability for community engagement event requests, working closely with residents of Forest Lake and surrounding areas like Wyoming, MN, and the greater Washington County region.

The value placed on the Forest Lake Police Department by the community is "crystal clear" from the overwhelming support shown for their initiatives and during challenging times. This mutual respect is the foundation of effective public safety in the city.

Services and Operational Focus of the FLPD

Beyond high-profile events and community programs, the Forest Lake Police Department provides a full spectrum of essential law enforcement services to ensure the ideal condition of the City—a community free from crime and disorder.

Core Responsibilities

The department’s operational focus includes:

  • Law Enforcement: Providing 24/7 police presence and response.
  • Crime Investigation: Thoroughly investigating criminal activities, from property crimes to violent offenses.
  • Traffic Control: Managing traffic flow, enforcing vehicle laws, and conducting accident investigations.
  • Public Safety Services: Offering general public assistance and ensuring the overall well-being of residents.
  • Emergency Response: Coordinating with other Washington County emergency services during critical incidents.

For residents needing to file a police report or speak with an officer, the department’s physical address is 1408 Lake Street South, and they can be reached via the non-emergency phone line.

Commitment to Professionalism

The FLPD maintains a commitment to professionalism, with its officers being recognized by organizations such as Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) for their efforts in making Minnesota roads safer. This dedication ensures that the citizens of Forest Lake receive high-quality, professional public safety services every day.

5 Critical Updates on the Forest Lake MN Police Department: Tragedies, Leadership, and 2025 Safety Initiatives
forest lake mn police department
forest lake mn police department

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