Meet John Hance: 

With over 30 years of combined experience in military, corrections, security leadership, and local law enforcement, John Hance is a proven leader committed to public safety, community partnership, and supporting those who serve. He is running for McKenzie County Sheriff to bring experienced, principled leadership to the office ensuring fairness, transparency, and stronger protection for the families and communities of McKenzie County.

 

John proudly served in the United States Army from 1988-1993, ultimately leading him to his law enforcement career in 1994 with the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation. John quickly advanced through the ranks, promoting to Correctional Sergeant and then Lieutenant. Along the way, he graduated from the Correctional Sergeant’s Academy and Lieutenant’s Academy, gaining the leadership skills needed to manage teams in high stakes environments. 

 

In 2012, John and his family relocated to Watford City, North Dakota to embrace new opportunities in the booming economy; they knew right away this would be their forever home. John served in private security management from 2012 to 2019, serving as a statewide Training Manager overseeing comprehensive security training programs. In 2019, John joined the McKenzie County Sheriff’s Office as a Deputy Sheriff, proudly serving the County for six years. In September 2025, he advanced to Police Sergeant with the Watford City Police Department, where he currently has the honor of leading and mentoring officers while protecting the community he calls home. 

 

Together for 37 years, John and his wife Jennifer have built a thriving family with 12 children and 19 grandchildren (and growing!). A devoted family man who loves the outdoors, John cherishes time spent hunting, fishing, and enjoying water sports with his loved ones. John is actively involved in his local church, where he serves as a board member and holds a leadership position with Operation Wellness Shield, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting the holistic well-being, personal independence, and long-term stability of first responders, U.S. military personnel, and their families.