MINOT – Christopher Vickerman, Minot, convicted in March of this year in the shooting death of his father, Mark Vickerman, Minot, on May 10, 2019 will serve life in prison without the possibility of parole.
Christopher Vickerman was originally sentenced by North-Central District Judge Douglas Mattson to 100 years in prison with 20 years suspended. However, the North Dakota Supreme Court ruled the sentence improper, citing inclusion of calculation of Christopher Vickerman’s life expectancy should have been considered in his sentencing.
At Monday’s re-sentencing hearing an expressionless Christopher Vickerman, shackled and in handcuffs, shuffled into the courtroom. He glanced at his mother, who was present for the hearing, but showed no emotion.
In discussing sentencing options, the defense argued that “with long-term treatment mentally ill people can get better.”
Ward County State’s Attorney Roza Larson asked Mattson for a sentence of life without the possibility of parole, reminding the court that Christopher Vickerman was found guilty of intentionally killing his father and that Christopher Vickerman was “found able to stand trial.”
Mattson stated that he had tried numerous murder cases in his career and, citing the defendant’s conduct, said that Christopher Vickerman remains a threat to society. Vickerman has been incarcerated in the State Penitentiary since his earlier conviction.
“His progress report is somewhat chilling.” said Mattson. “He lacks remorse. I want to make it difficult for the defendant to be released. I am sentencing him to life without the possibility of parole.”
