Fargo Police Search for Missing Man Preston John Bushard: Key Details

The Fargo Police Department has issued a public alert regarding Preston John Bushard, a 45-year-old high-risk registered sex offender who has registered a new address in north Fargo. According to an official release from the department, Bushard is described as 5-foot-4, 160 pounds, with blue eyes and brown hair.

The alert follows standard protocol for monitoring individuals classified as high-risk offenders, though authorities have not disclosed specific details about the nature of Bushard’s prior offenses or the circumstances prompting the notification. The Fargo Police Department’s dispatch logs, which track community incidents, do not currently list any active investigations or emergencies linked to Bushard at this time.

Public Notification and Privacy Considerations

The Fargo Police Department has adjusted its approach to public notifications in recent years to balance transparency with privacy concerns. In September 2025, the department implemented a policy to update missing person and runaway juvenile posts on social media once individuals are located safely, removing photos and personal identifying details while retaining a record of the case. This practice aims to protect individuals’ privacy while still informing the community of resolutions.

However, exceptions are made for high-risk cases, such as those involving Wireless Emergency Alerts, where identifying information is widely disseminated to aid in locating the individual quickly. In such instances, original posts and graphics remain visible even after the person is found, with updates added to clarify the outcome. The department has not indicated whether Bushard’s case falls under this exception, but the public alert suggests a heightened level of concern.

Community Response and Reporting

Residents with information about Bushard’s whereabouts or any suspicious activity are urged to contact the Fargo Police Department directly. The North Dakota Missing Persons Clearinghouse, which provides resources for law enforcement and the public, encourages community members to report any relevant details to local authorities rather than attempting to engage directly with individuals under monitoring.

The Fargo Police Department’s dispatch logs, which are publicly accessible, categorize calls by type but do not provide real-time updates on active investigations. As of April 28, 2026, there are no entries in the logs explicitly linking Bushard to any recent incidents. The department has not released additional statements regarding potential risks to the community or specific precautions residents should take.

Legal and Procedural Context

North Dakota law requires registered sex offenders to update their addresses with local law enforcement within three business days of moving. Failure to comply can result in criminal charges. The state’s registry is publicly accessible, and law enforcement agencies may issue notifications when high-risk offenders relocate, particularly if their new address is near schools, parks, or other areas frequented by children.

The Fargo Police Department’s decision to issue this alert aligns with its broader efforts to keep the public informed about potential risks while adhering to privacy and legal guidelines. The department has not indicated whether additional measures, such as community meetings or targeted outreach, will accompany this notification.

For further information, residents are advised to contact the Fargo Police Department’s non-emergency line or visit the North Dakota Attorney General’s website for details on the state’s sex offender registry.