Search for armed robbery suspect ends in officer-involved shooting

A man wanted for an armed robbery in Idaho is deceased after he was shot by law enforcement officers when he charged at them with a scissors.  Dakota Lee Chlarson, 25, was being sought by the U.S. Marshals Service’s High Plains Fugitive Task Force based on an active warrant from Idaho charging Chlarson with armed robbery.  Chlarson was given emergency medical treatment on scene but he succumbed to his wounds.  No officers were injured during the incident.  The incident occurred at approximately 9:30 am Mountain Time in Dickinson.

U.S. Marshals had recently received information from U.S. Marshals in Idaho indicating that Chlarson could be staying at 305 Sims Street.  It was reported that Chlarson had an extensive criminal history in Idaho and that he may be armed and dangerous.  Task force officers from Bismarck traveled to Dickinson.  An arrest plan was prepared to arrest Chlarson, which included assistance from Dickinson police officers.  When the task force officers entered the apartment where Chlarson was located, a standoff ensued.  The officers negotiated with Chlarson for several minutes attempting to get him to surrender.  Officers then attempted to use less-than-lethal devices to gain Chlarson’s compliance.  Those attempts were unsuccessful.  Chlarson eventually charged at the officers while threatening them with a scissors and officers were forced to act to protect themselves. 

The scene was secured and investigators were called.  The North Dakota Bureau of Investigation will be the lead agency in charge of investigating the incident.  Two Bismarck police officers assigned to the task force will be on standard administrative leave while the incident is under investigation.   

U.S. Marshal Dallas Carlson said, “This incident is a reminder that the work of our task force officers is dangerous business.  I’m very thankful that no officers were hurt.  It’s unfortunate any time there is a loss of human life, so please keep in mind the family of Mr. Chlarson is hurting today.” 

The High Plains Fugitive Task Force in Bismarck includes the U.S. Marshals Service, Bismarck Police Department, Mandan Police Department, Burleigh County Sheriff’s Department, and Morton County Sheriff’s Office.  The partnership began in June 2019.  The task force focuses on arresting people who are wanted for violent crimes or serious drug offenses.