Sheriff’s office receives overtime grant

The Pierce County Sheriff’s Office has received nearly $7,000 in grants to fund overtime for special patrol, according to sheriff Matt Lunde.

Lunde said the grant, through the North Dakota Department of Transportation, will fund overtime for extra DUI patrol, to enforce underage drinking laws and for seatbelt enforcement.

“That’s a substantial amount more than we’ve had before so we’re excited about that,” Lunde said. “We want to make sure everyone is driving home safe. Not only are these programs essential, but they’re definitely for public safety.”

Sheriff warns of loose livestock

Pierce County Sheriff Matt Lunde said his office has received several calls regarding cattle that have escaped their fenced areas.

“We’ve had several calls for cattle out of their fences,” Lunde said. “It’s happening all over the county. We want to give reminders for people to check their fences.”

Lunde said the loose livestock has already caused accidents and property damage.

“If it causes an accident or damages people’s property, they can be accountable or even charged criminally or receive a fine,” Lunde said.

Lunde said some water issues have made fencing more difficult but all farmers and ranchers need to check their land.

“Keep an eye on fences make sure that they’re secured,” he said. “It’s a public safety concern. It goes for all livestock, but mostly it’s definitely the cattle.”