Two Rugby Police Department officers are moving on to the Grand Forks County Sheriff’s Office.

Sgt. Nathan Moen and Officer Brandon Rakoczy will complete their duties for the city on July 5 before beginning their new positions as resident sheriff deputies in Larimore.

Police Chief Luis Coca said they performed their duties well here and he’s sorry to see them go, but it’s difficult to keep these positions filled when larger law enforcement departments can offer better benefit packages and wages.

The department has begun a search to fill their positions and Coca is hoping to find applicants with previous law enforcement experience.

In the meantime, Coca and Officer Justin Maus will be working overtime to cover shifts. Coca said there are a few part-time officers who will help out, but there isn’t a large pool to select from at the present time.

Officer Maus has been nominated by Coca to the position of Sergeant, but has not yet been confirmed to the new title.