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Deputy Nets Fleeing Suspect

ND Highway Patrol Mclean County Sheriff’s Department Pursuit Crash in Burleigh CountyWhat: Injury CrashWhere: Highway 83 Southbound MM 100, 8 miles north of BismarckWhen: 04/01/2024 at 5:04 AM CentralRoad Conditions: GoodWeather Conditions: CloudyCrash Involvement: Vehicle/VehicleType of Crash: Deployment of Grappler Police Bumper/RolloverAgencies Involved: Mclean County Sheriff’s Department, Burleigh County Sheriff’sDepartment,…
April 1, 2024
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Dakota Lounge Shooter Sentenced

Headed to Penitentiary MINOT – He shot two men inside a crowded bar. Now he has been sentenced to serve a lengthy time behind bars. Theophris Drake, 41, Birmingham, Ala., pled guilty in October 2023, to the shooting of two men among a crowd of patrons in the Dakota Lounge…
March 28, 2024
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Victim, Vehicles, Residence Burned

Murder Trial Ahead MINOT – The murder trial of Kamauri Kennedy, 34, is scheduled to begin April 3 in North Central District Court. A status conference in the case was heard in front of Judge Gary Lee on Monday. Kennedy’s trail to the Ward County courtroom is a lengthy one.…
March 25, 2024
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Former Pastor Sentenced for Theft from Church

Gullickson Ordered to Repay, Additional Jail Time WASHBURN – Erin Gullickson, 49, Benedict, will serve another seven months in the McLean County Jail, followed by three years of supervised probation. Gullickson, the former pastor at Our Saviour Lutheran Church in Max, was found guilty by jury trial of theft of…
March 20, 2024
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Window Breaker Arrested

A disorderly male was arrested Monday evening in SW Minot On March 18, 2024, at approximately 5:36 p.m., officers were dispatched to aresidence in southwest Minot for reports of a disorderly male breaking thewindows of a house.Once officers arrived on the scene, they discovered the homeowner, an 81-yearold male, had…
March 19, 2024
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Harsh Sentence for Evil Act 

Murder Mom Gets Life   MINOT – A lengthy sentencing hearing resulted in life without parole for Heather Hoffman, 27, Minot, for the murder of Alexander Eckert, the father of her young daughter.   In announcing his sentence, Judge Gary Lee directed that Hoffman have no contact with her daughter for life,…
March 15, 2024
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Guilty Verdict in Vegas Murder

Jury Convicts Darrian Jackson MINOT -- The final day of the Darrion Jackson murder trial was riveting, from closing arguments through a brief deliberation by the 12-person jury. Jackson, 33, Fargo, was charged with the murder of Timothy Smith, 38, Minot, at the Vegas Motel on January 30, 2023. The…
March 15, 2024
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Minot Motel Murder Trial Underway

Fargo Man Accused in Shooting MINOT – Several witnesses followed opening statements Tuesday in the murder trial of Darrion Jackson, 33, Fargo. Jackson is charged with felony AA murder in the shooting death of Timothy Smith, 38, Minot. According to a statement of facts filed with the court, Minot Police…
March 12, 2024
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18 Arrested at Sawyer Bar

Ward County Sheriffs Department release On March 3rd, 2024, at approximately 12:24 AM, the Ward County Sheriff’s Departmentreceived a report of underage individuals in the Whiskey Bandits bar in Sawyer. Deputies respondedand located sixteen individuals less than twenty-one years of age inside the bar, all but two had beenconsuming alcohol.…
March 4, 2024
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Killer Sentenced

Murder at Lamplighter Lounge MINOT – Moments before sentencing Justin McDermott, 35, Minot, for the late December 2022 murder in the parking lot of the Lamplighter Lounge, Judge Gary Lee told the court that, “This sort of conduct just can’t be tolerated.” With that, Lee sentenced McDermott to 40 years…
February 14, 2024
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Attempted Murder, Chase, Leads to Prison 

Defendant Laughed About Killing Officers  MINOT – It was time to pay for his actions and when the proceedings concluded Joshua Chambers, 19, Minot, racked up 75 years in prison sentences in front of North Central District Judge Richard Hagar Monday afternoon. Hagar tacked on slightly more than $71,000 dollars…
February 12, 2024
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Former Pastor Guilty of Theft 

Funds Taken from Max Church  WASHBURN – A 12-person jury returned a verdict of guilty Tuesday afternoon in the Theft of Property trial of Erin Gullickson, 48, Benedict.   Gullickson was charged in early May 2023 with taking nearly $80,000 in funds from Our Savior Lutheran Church in Max where she…
January 31, 2024
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Guilty as Charged in Original Bar Shooting 

Travis McDermott Sentencing Set  MINOT – Travis McDermott, 41, Minot, has been found guilty of Manslaughter and Reckless Endangerment. A jury returned that verdict following two days of testimony in front of North-Central District Judge Todd Cresap. A key moment in the trial was the showing of video, from two…
January 25, 2024
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Graphic Video in Manslaughter Trial 

Detective Refutes Defendant’s Statement  Jurors were shown graphic video Tuesday of a fatal shooting that occurred at Minot’s Original Bar and Nightclub on May 14, 2023.  Travis McDermott, 41, Minot, charged with Manslaughter and Reckless Endangerment for his role in the shooting, hung his head while the video played on…
January 23, 2024
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Murder Suspect Arrested in Minot

Minot Police release The Minot Police Department and US Marshals Office arrested a suspect innorthwest Minot Wednesday afternoon in connection with a 2021 homicide thatoccurred in South Carolina.33-year-old Sherrod C. Joyner was arrested for an outstanding homicide warrantout of Richland County, SC.Joyner was arrested without incident and transported to Ward…
January 18, 2024
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Arrest in October Shooting

Minot Police release The Minot Police Department has arrested a suspect regarding the Oct. 9, 2023,shooting incident that resulted in the death of Davin Eby Smith, 34, of Minot.Officers arrested Ian W. Abrahamson, 23, of Minot, Monday for his involvementin the October shooting.Abrahamson is charged with Aggravated Assault with/ a…
January 8, 2024
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Arrest in Overdose Deaths

Minot Police release The Minot Police Department arrested a suspect Friday in connection with a series of recentoverdoses in Minot.Antuan J. Smith, 25, of Minot, was arrested on four counts of Delivery of ControlledSubstances Resulting in Death or Injury (Class A Felony).Smith was transferred to the Ward County Jail. If…
January 6, 2024
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Murder Venue Changed 

Judge Halts Trial  MINOT – The long-awaited murder trial of Shawnee Krall, 30, Minot, will wait a while longer.  Judge Stacy Louser ordered that the trial be moved out of North-Central District Court due to publicity surrounding the case. The action came during the second day of jury selection on…
January 4, 2024
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Christmas Eve Murder

Tear Filled Courtroom MINOT – The courtroom was packed, standing room only with overflow listening and peering in from the hallway. On the television screen at the front of the courtroom the accused sat in black and white striped inmate clothes inside the Ward County Jail. Judge Gary Lee, taking…
December 26, 2023
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“A Waste of My Life” 

Lengthy Sentence Ordered  MINOT – The defendant asked that his attorney be ordered out of the courtroom. Judge Richard Hagar disagreed, eventually telling Joshua Smith, 33, Williston, that “You’re a sick man.”  Smith had a sentencing hearing Wednesday morning after earlier being found guilty of nine felonies, the most serious…
December 20, 2023
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Judge: “A Very Serious Matter” 

A Murder Without a Body  MINOT – A murder case that has been in the court system for three years is approaching culmination – perhaps.  Shawnee Krall, 30, Minot, is charged with AA felony murder in the death of Alice Queirolo, 29, Minot, in December 2020. However, due to the…
December 15, 2023
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Suspect Arrested for Attempted Murder

Minot Police Department On Nov. 16, Minot Central Dispatch received a report of a burglary and assault at aresidence in northwest Minot early in the morning.The suspect reportedly broke into the residence and strangled the victim.Eventually, the victim escaped the home and contacted police.Officers from the Minot Police Department arrived…
December 7, 2023
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Closet Offender Sentenced 

Pled Guilty to Felony Charges  MINOT – When police notified a Minot mother that Cale Schalesky, 24, Hettinger, had been released from jail she responded by saying she already knew because Schalesky was in her daughter’s closet that morning.  Schalesky was apprehended on a charge of Gross Sexual Imposition-Sexual Contact-Victim…
December 5, 2023
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Verdict is Guilty 

Life Sentence Possible  MINOT – A Makoti man is facing a life sentence in the State Penitentiary without the possibility of parole following a verdict reached by a 12-person jury in North-Central District Court Thursday.  Nathaniel Sanchez, 37, listened to the reading of a guilty verdict on the AA felony…
November 30, 2023
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Family Testimony 

Accused Faces Life in Prison  The first full day of testimony in the trial of Nathaniel Sanchez, 37, Makoti, charged with Continuous Sexual Abuse of a Child, included former family members on the witness stand. The charge against Sanchez is a AA felony punishable by life in prison.  The State…
November 28, 2023
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Man Dies from Gunshot Wound

Suspect Still at Large Victim dies from injuries sustained in a shooting incidentUpdate 11.24.23:Ansu Kamara, 29, of Minot has died from injuries sustained in the shooting incident thatoccurred on Nov. 17 in NW Minot. Minot Police Department has issued an arrest warrant forQuantdre Octavious Mersier. Investigation is ongoing. With the…
November 24, 2023
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Possible Dismissal in Knutson Murder Case 

Judge to Rule on Request  MINOT – No decision was immediately made at a Motion to Dismiss hearing in the long-running Anita Knutson murder case. The hearing was held Friday morning in front of North-Central District Court Judge Richard Hagar. Knutson was murdered in June of 2007, but it wasn’t…
November 17, 2023
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A Fatal Scam 

Death by Poisoning  MINOT – A man is dead. His longtime girlfriend is charged with murder. A $30 million inheritance scam is believed to be the reason.  Ina Kenoyer, 47, Minot, was arrested October 31 for a AA felony charge of Murder-Intentional, Knowing, or with Extreme Indifference, for the September…
November 14, 2023
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The Chase Continues 

Sentencing Delayed  MINOT – What was to have been a sentencing appearance for a man who previously pled guilty to multiple felony charges was delayed Thursday afternoon.  Joshua Chambers, 19, Minot, appeared along with his court appointed attorney, before Judge Richard Hagar. The attorney explained to Hagar that his defendant…
November 2, 2023
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Sentenced to 40 Years 

Accomplice to Murder  MINOT – Regina Goodale, 35, Minot, found guilty of Accomplice to Murder earlier this year, received a 40-year prison sentence at a hearing in North-Central District Court Wednesday for her role in luring her husband to his death.  Judge Todd Cresap, after hearing from the defendant’s attorney, the…
November 1, 2023
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Daycare Death Set for Trial 

Provider Faces Murder Charge  CARRINGTON – Patricia Wick, 48, Jamestown, is scheduled to go to trial on charges of Murder, Child Abuse, and Operating a Daycare Without a License.  The charges stem from a September 26, 2022, medical call at a day care at 438 2nd St. South. According to…
October 31, 2023
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Minot Woman Arrested for Poisoning Boyfriend

Minot Police release The Minot Police Department arrested a Minot woman on Oct. 30 and charged her with killing her boyfriend through poisoning.  Steven Edward Riley Jr, a 51-year-old Minot man, died on Sept. 5, 2023, at a Bismarck hospital. Riley was initially brought to Trinity Hospital but was transferred…
October 30, 2023
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Murder Case Delayed 

Judge Orders Medication  MINOT – Casey Vollmer, 34, Minot, has been ordered to take medication before the court goes forward with prosecution of a AA felony murder charge.  “It’s my observation that Mr. Vollmer has constant tremors just sitting there,” said Judge Gary Lee during a status conference in North-Central…
October 30, 2023
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Facing AA Murder 

Burned vehicles, body  MINOT – It is a murder case that has involved law enforcement in multiple states, burned vehicles, a burned residence, and a body discovered in burned vehicle.   Kamauri Kennedy, 34, Minot, charged with AA felony Murder-Intentional or Knowing; and AA felony Conspiracy to Commit Murder-Intentional, had a…
October 25, 2023
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Hit and Run Help Needed

Ward County Sheriff's Department  *Press Release*                 On September 13, 2023, at approximately 9:52 PM, the Ward County Sheriff’s Department responded to Ward County Road 15, in the vicinity of Green Thumb Greenhouse, to a report of a hit and run traffic accident between a motorcycle and another vehicle.  A…
October 25, 2023
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Guilty Pleas Entered in Shooting 

Defendant Surrenders to Authorities  MINOT – A trial scheduled to begin Tuesday was cancelled following the entering of guilty pleas Monday by Theophris Drake, 40, Birmingham, Alabama. Drake is charged with five felonies stemming from the shooting of two individuals at the Dakota Lounge on February 4 of this year. …
October 23, 2023
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Delay Looming in Dakota Lounge Shooting Case 

Judge to Rule on Attorney Withdrawal  MINOT – With a court trial set for less than two weeks away the defendant is seeking a change of attorney. Judge Douglas Mattson heard arguments on a Motion to Withdraw in a courtroom here Friday.  Theophris Drake, 40, Birmingham, Alabama, who is facing…
October 13, 2023
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Pedestrian Struck, Arrest Made

ND Highway Patrol What: Vehicle struck a pedestrian and the vehicle fled the crash sceneWhere: 400 block of 11th Ave S in Wahpeton, on the north side of the Wahpeton AirportWhen: October 12th, 2023 @ approximately 7:40 pmRoad Conditions: Dry, dark, limited lightingType of Crash: Vehicle struck a pedestrianAgencies Involved:…
October 13, 2023
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Accident Trio Makes Court Appearance 

Face Multiple Felony Charges  MINOT – It began with a vehicle stop in the parking lot of a southwest Minot motel and ended with a three-vehicle crash and multiple arrests.  On September 1 of this year a Ward County Drug Task Force officer investigating possible drug activity approached a vehicle…
October 12, 2023
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Knutson Murder Trial Set 

Roommate Charged in Death  MINOT – A trial date has finally been set in one the lengthiest murder cases ever conducted in this state.  Nichole Rice, 36, Minot, is charged with Murder-Intentional or Knowing-Adult Victim, in the stabbing death of her former roommate at a northwest Minot apartment. Anita Knutson’s…
October 12, 2023
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Murder Trial Requested 

Shooting Death at Minot Motel  MINOT – The man charged with murdering another at a north Minot motel has entered a “not guilty” plea and his court appointed attorney, Steven Mottinger, has requested his client’s case be heard by a jury.  Darrion Jackson, 34, Fargo, was scheduled for a pretrial…
October 4, 2023
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Sex Offender Info

Minot Police release JAMES CLARENCE NEWCOMBE updated his registration information with the Minot Police Department as a SEXUAL OFFENDER showing he has moved within the city limits of Minot.  NEWCOMBE has been deemed a HIGH RISK offender that is required to perform LIFETIME REGISTRATION. NEWCOMBE was convicted on 9/30/1993 of…
October 3, 2023
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Roommate Death Fills Courtroom 

Nichole Rice Charged with Murder of Anita Knutson  MINOT – As she exited the courtroom, she passed inches away from the parents of the woman she is charged with killing.  Nichole Rice, 36 , made a pretrial conference appearance in North-Central District Court Wednesday in front of Judge Richard Hagar.…
September 27, 2023
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Murder Trial Set 

Judge Allows 10 Days  MINOT – The long-awaited trial for Shawnee Krall, 30, Minot, has been scheduled to begin January 2, 2024. Judge Stacy Louser set the date during a brief hearing in North-Central District Court Wednesday morning.  Krall, will have been jailed for more than three years when the…
September 27, 2023
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Guilty in Death of Child 

Prison Sentence for Bicycle Crash  WATFORD CITY –- Julian Montoya, 21, Watford City, entered an amended plea of guilty Monday for striking and killing a child on a bicycle. The action came in Northwest District court in front of Judge Robin Schmidt.  Montoya originally pled not guilty to Negligent Homicide-Child…
September 25, 2023
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Second Arrest in Apartment Shooting

City of Minot release The Minot Police Department has arrested two suspects in connection with ashooting at a northwest Minot apartment complex on July 7, 2023. Jordan D. Bailey, 26, of Minot, is charged with nine counts of RecklessEndangerment and one count of Aggravated Assault. Bailey was taken into custodySept.…
September 22, 2023
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Murder Trial Halted 

Attorney Dismissed from Case  MINOT – The murder trial for Shawnee Krall, 30, Minot, has been halted just days before it was to begin.  Defense attorney Breanna Delorme was granted permission in North-Central District Court this week to be removed from the case with the murder trial set to begin…
September 21, 2023
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Fentanyl Seized in City

City of Minot release The Minot Police Department assisted the Ward County Narcotics Taskforce with asearch warrant on Sept. 14 in northwest Minot.The Narcotics Taskforce seized a large amount of fentanyl, measuring one kilogramor roughly 10,000 fentanyl tablets, and a firearm reported stolen in another state.The investigation is ongoing.The Ward…
September 20, 2023
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Arrested in City Shoot ‘Em Up 

Bond Set at $200,000  MINOT – One of two people charged with alleged involvement in a shooting in this city is behind bars while an arrest warrant has been issued for the other.  Judge Gary Lee set bond this week for Sydney Roller, 20, Minot, for her alleged role in…
September 19, 2023
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Trial Set in Original Bar Killing 

Travis McDermott Charged with Manslaughter  MINOT – One dead, one arrested at the Original Bar on North Broadway about 1:45 a.m. on May 14, 2023.  The man accused of firing two gunshots that resulted in the death of Greyson Sletto, 32, Willow City, will go to trial in January 2024…
September 15, 2023
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GUILTY 

Jury Finds Hoffman Guilty of Murder  MINOT – It took only 2 ½ hours Tuesday for a 12-person jury to reach a guilty verdict in the Heather Hoffman murder trial.   Hoffman, 26, Minot, was charged with the murder of 22-year-old Alexander Eckert in the doorway of Eckert’s northwest Minot…
September 12, 2023
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Fate in Jury Room 

Deliberations Underway in Hoffman Murder Case  MINOT – The 12-person jury exited a North-Central District courtroom shortly before 11 a.m. Tuesday to begin deliberation in the murder case against Heather Hoffman, 26, Minot. Hoffman is charged with the murder of Alexander Eckert, 22, Minot, in the entry way of his…
September 12, 2023
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Defense Rests in Hoffman Murder Trial 

Closing Arguments Expected Tuesday  MINOT – The defense rested their case after less than two hours of testimony in North-Central District Court Monday. The State’s case lasted two and one-half days, ending before noon Monday.   Heather Hoffman, 26, is on trial for the April 22, 2022, murder of Alexander…
September 11, 2023
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Juror Removed, State Rests in Murder Trial 

Defense Set to Present Case  MINOT – The State finished presenting their case against Heather Hoffman, 26, Minot, about 10:15 a.m. Monday. Hoffman is charged with the murder of Alexander Eckert, 22, on April 22, 2022. The defense will begin presenting their side of the case Monday afternoon.  The trial…
September 11, 2023
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Prison for Man Who Falsely Blamed Republicans in Manslaughter Case 

Five Years Behind Bars  CARRINGTON – An incident involving a North Dakota man that attracted national media attention after claiming a person he drove over and killed was part of a “Republican extremist group,” learned his fate in a Foster County courtroom Friday.  Shannon Brandt, 33, had earlier entered a…
September 8, 2023
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Violent Recording in the Courtroom 

Jury Hears Murder Defendant  MINOT – It was very heated, very emotional, and perhaps the most impactful evidence yet presented by the prosecution in the Heather Hoffman murder case.   As the State continued to present their evidence Friday morning, the jury listened to a recording of Hoffman and the…
September 8, 2023
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Did She, or Didn’t She? 

Murder Trial Underway  MINOT – The state says she did it. The defense says she wasn’t even there and has identified who they believe committed the crime. Opening statements Thursday provided a glimpse of what may transpire in North-Central District Court over the next several days.   Heather Hoffman, 26, has…
September 7, 2023
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Lengthy Sentence for Sex Offender 

North-Central District Court  MINOT – A Minot man found guilty in January of Gross Sexual Imposition-Victim Under 15 years of age, was sentenced to more years than sought by the state in a courtroom here Wednesday.  Michael Prescott, 24, Minot, was sentenced to 20 years in the State Penitentiary, serve…
September 6, 2023
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Multiple Charges for Lignite Man 

Includes Gross Sexual Imposition  MINOT – Cassidy Johnson, 22, Lignite, made his initial appearance in North-Central District Court late Tuesday on three felony charges – gross sexual imposition, luring minors by computer, and possession of certain materials prohibited. The GSI charge is an AA felony punishable by up to life…
September 5, 2023
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Sex Offender Update

Minot Police Department release Press Release 9/1/2023 On 9/1/2023, THOMAS PATRICK WALSH updated his registration information with the Minot Police Department as a SEXUAL OFFENDER showing he is living within the city limits of Minot.  WALSH is currently listed with an UNASSIGNED RISK LEVEL with the ND BCI and, as…
September 1, 2023
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Explosive Case 

Trial Set for Next Year  WILLISTON – A man who pled not guilty to eight felony charges has had a trial date set for July 17, 2024, in Northwest District court. The action came during an appearance before Judge Kirsten Sjue Monday afternoon.  Ross Petrie, 29, Pocatello, Idaho, was charged…
August 29, 2023
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Fentanyl Arrest on Interstate

NDHP Intent to Deliver Fentanyl arrest on I-94 near the University exit in Fargo NARRATIVE:On August 245th at approximately 4:19 PM North Dakota State Troopers responded to milemarker 350 on I-94 regarding an oversize semi-truck driver that was calling for assistance.When Troopers arrived, they learned that a Ford Edge SUV…
August 25, 2023
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Powers Lake Man Arrested, Charged 

Four Felony Counts  MINOT – Robert Watterud, 35, Powers Lake, is facing four Class A felony counts of Gross Sexual Imposition. He is currently being held in the Mountrail County Correctional Facility in Stanley following his August 18 arrest.  Earlier this week Watterud made an interactive television appearance in North-Central…
August 22, 2023
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Text Message Case 

Need Sugar for Kool-Aid  MINOT – Paul Kelly, Jr., 44, Minot, made an appearance before Judge Gary Lee in North-Central District Court Thursday in a case that began with a text message, “I need sugar for my Kool-Aid", to a third person. That person alerted Minot Police to conduct a…
August 17, 2023
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Guilty of Murder 

Accused Changes Plea in Minot Courtroom  MINOT -- Justin McDermott, 35, Minot, entered a guilty plea to a AA felony charge of Murder-Intentional or Knowing-Adult Victim, during an appearance in North-Central District Court late Wednesday morning.  The charge, which carries the possibility of life in prison without parole, stems from the…
August 16, 2023
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Three Peat Offender 

From Fine to Possible Prison Sentence  MINOT – What started as a minor misdemeanor in Minot Municipal Court has evolved into a B felony charge with a hefty penalty of up to 10 years in prison and a $20,000 fine.  Karleon Gregory, Minot, made an appearance before Judge Gary Lee…
August 16, 2023
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Unassigned Risk Offender

Minot Police Department release On 7/27/2023 GLEN ADAM THOMAS, updated his registration information with the Minot Police Department as a SEXUAL OFFENDER showing he is living within the city limits of Minot.  THOMAS is currently listed with an UNASSIGNED RISK LEVEL with the ND BCI and, as such, is treated…
July 27, 2023
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AA Felony Dismissed 

Murder Charge Remains  MINOT – A Minot man facing a pair of AA felony charges, both carrying the possibility of life in prison without parole, had one of them dismissed Tuesday.  Judge Stacy Louser agreed to dismiss a count of Gross Sexual Imposition-Sexual Act-Force-Victim Death against Shawnee Krall, 30, Minot.…
July 26, 2023
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Escapee on the Loose

ND Highway Patrol' Presumed DangerousNARRATIVE:On July 18th, 2023 at 9:45PM Nathan Allen Lang, 39 years old, escaped from the James RiverMinimum Unit in Jamestown, ND. He was serving a sentence for theft of property andcontributing to the delinquency of a minor. He was last seen wearing a grey long sleeve…
July 19, 2023
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Hit and Run Killer Sentenced 

Victim Seven Years Old  ROLLA – After a lengthy period of avoiding law enforcement his time on the run came to an end with a June 28, 2023, traffic stop near Max. Joshua Forschen, 28, Grand Forks, entered an amended plea of guilty to charges of Leaving Scene of Accident…
July 18, 2023
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Priest Guilty of Sexual Assault 

Entered Plea in Jamestown  JAMESTOWN – Father Neil Pfiefer, 49, Jamestown, entered a guilty plea to a charge of Sexual Assault in Southeast District court here Thursday morning. The offense is a class A misdemeanor.  A second charge, a class C felony of Sexual Exploitation by Therapist which carried the…
July 13, 2023
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Washburn Teacher Sentenced in Student Sex Case 

Pled Guilty to Four Charges  WASHBURN – A former teacher at Washburn Public School was sentenced to the maximum of five years in the State Penitentiary at his sentencing hearing Monday.   On December 7, 2022, Joshua Eddy was arrested and charged with four counts of C felonies, two of Sexual…
July 11, 2023
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Bicycle Death Continued 

Watford City Case Bound for Trial  WATFORD CITY – The man charged with the hit-and-run death of a 6-year-old boy had his pretrial conference canceled Thursday. Attorneys cited the reason as a failure to reach an agreement. A trial date in the matter has been set for September 18 in…
July 6, 2023
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Accused Shooter in Court 

Man Killed at Original Bar  MINOT – It happened shortly before 2 a.m. on May 14 of this year, shots fired inside the Original Bar. At 2:12 a.m. Greyson Sletto, 32, Willow City, was pronounced dead.  The man arrested for the shooting, 40-year-old Travis McDermott of Minot, made a Thursday…
July 6, 2023
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Alleged Shooter in Court 

Appearance in Dakota Lounge Shooting  MINOT – The man Minot Police say matches the description of a suspect in a February 4, 2023, shooting at the Dakota Lounge made a pretrial appearance in North-Central District Court Wednesday morning.  In a hearing that lasted only a few minutes Theophris Drake, 40, Birmingham,…
June 28, 2023
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Abundant Murder Charges in Ward County

Several Inmates Facing Lengthy Prison Terms  MINOT -- The Ward County Detention Center is currently housing a high number of inmates either convicted of or facing felony murder or murder related charges, eight of them. In addition, one person charged with murder is free on bail, another is being evaluated…
June 27, 2023
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Defendants Guilty of Murder 

Brief Deliberation for Jury  MINOT – The jury determined the evidence and witness testimony in the dual case of two defendants was overwhelming.  Mathew “Cyrus” Anderson, 35, Minot, and Regina Goodale, 35, Minot, showed no emotion when guilty verdicts were read in a Minot courtroom Friday afternoon. Both defendants were…
June 23, 2023
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Guilty of Murder, Accomplice  

Jury Returns AA Felony Verdicts (*Note -- This story is in the process of being updated to reflect the afternoon verdict rendered by the jury.) MINOT – A 12-person jury received their final instructions Friday morning and, after listening to closing arguments, retired to the jury room to begin deliberations…
June 23, 2023
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Unusual Case Results in 5-year Sentence 

Guilty of Negligent Homicide  MINOT -- “I’m at a loss for words. I can’t recall anything like this,” Judge Todd Cresap told the defendant. “Take it to heart and clean up your act.”  With that, Cresap accepted the guilty plea of Scott Parizek, 33, Minot, in a change of plea…
June 22, 2023
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Silent Defense in Murder Trial 

Jury to Hear Closing Arguments  MINOT – In a somewhat unexpected move, attorneys for each client in a dual Murder/Accomplice case, told the court their clients would not be taking the stand to testify and that the defense would not be calling any witnesses.  The State rested their case shortly…
June 22, 2023
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Graphic Scenes in Courtroom 

Testimony Continues in Dual Murder Trial  MINOT – Jurors saw a series of graphic photographs on the big screen in front of them during afternoon testimony Wednesday at the Ward County Courthouse..   On trial for the murder of Wade Goodale, 42, Minot, on February 24, 2022, is Mathew Anderson,…
June 21, 2023
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Opening Statements in Murder Trial 

Witness Testimony Underway  MINOT – Judge Todd Cresap gave a seven-man, five-woman jury preliminary instructions Tuesday morning in the double trial of Mathew Anderson, 35, Minot, charged with AA felony Murder-Extreme Indifference; and Regina Goodale, 34, Minot, charged with AA felony Accomplice to Murder-Extreme Indifference. The trial in North-Central District…
June 20, 2023
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Arrests Made in Painting, Memorabilia Thefts 

Including from Roger Maris Museum in Fargo  By CLAUDIA LAUER The Associated Press  Federal authorities announced charges against a ring of nine people for thefts of millions of dollars worth of paintings, sports memorabilia and other valuables including an Andy Warhol silkscreen, a Jackson Pollock painting and nine World Series…
June 15, 2023
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Guilty on Nine Counts 

Attempted Murder, Car Chase, Shots Fired  MINOT – The driver of a vehicle involved in one of the wildest car chases ever seen in this city entered guilty pleas to nine separate charges in a North Central District courtroom here Friday.  Joshua Chambers, 18, Minot, was facing multiple felony charges as…
June 9, 2023
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Knutson Murder Case Delayed Again 

Judge Approves Request  MINOT – There's another delay in the Anita Knutson murder case.   Attorneys for both sides asked the court for more time to work through “significant, new discovery.” Judge Richard Hagar agreed, pushing back a pretrial conference initially set for June 14 to September 27 .  Knutson’s body…
June 8, 2023
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Pastor Makes Court Appearance 

Charged with Theft of Property  WASHBURN – Rev. Erin Gullickson, Benedict, made her initial appearance on a Theft of Property charge in South Central District Court Wednesday.  Gullickson, who on February 17 was suspended by the Western North Dakota Synod from her duties at Our Saviour Lutheran Church in Max…
June 7, 2023
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No Trial Yet for Accused Shooter 

Two Shot at Dakota Lounge   MINOT – A man charged in the shooting of two others made a brief appearance in North-Central District Court Wednesday.  Theophris Drake, 40, Birmingham, Alabama, is facing five felony charges stemming from a February 4, 2023, incident at the Dakota Lounge. Police responded to…
May 24, 2023
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Death Sentence Change for Man who Killed Dru Sjodin 

Reduced to Life in Prison  FARGO (AP) — The death sentence for a Minnesota man who killed a North Dakota college student 20 years ago has been officially changed to life in prison.  Eighth Circuit Court of Appeals Judge Ralph Erickson signed the sentence amendment for Alfonso Rodriguez Jr. last…
May 24, 2023
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Magic City Murder 

Pretrial Conference Set in Knutson Murder Case  One of the most perplexing murder cases in this city’s history may get underway in a Minot courtroom later this year. A pretrial conference in the Anita Knutson slaying is set for June 14 at 11 a.m. in front of North-Central District Judge…
May 22, 2023
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Guilty of Manslaughter

On May 18, 2023, Shannon Brandt entered a guilty plea to the charge of Manslaughter. TheState dismissed Count 2, Leaving the Scene of an Accident. A Presentence Investigation wasordered by the Court. The Defendant shall remain on bond pending Sentencing at a later date.All conditions of the Defendant’s bond shall…
May 18, 2023
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Man indicted in North Dakota for theft of 'Wizard of Oz' ruby slippers worn by Judy Garland

FARGO -- A man has been indicted by a grand jury on charges of stealing a pair of ruby red slippers worn by Judy Garland in "The Wizard of Oz," federal prosecutors in North Dakota say. The shoes were stolen in 2005 and recovered in a 2018 FBI sting operation,…
May 18, 2023
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Former tribal leader sentenced for taking bribes in North Dakota

BISMARCK — A former government official of the Mandan, Hidatsa and Arikara Nation has been sentenced to five years in prison for accepting bribes and kickbacks from a construction contractor at Fort Berthold Indian Reservation in North Dakota. Randall Phelan, 58, of Mandaree, was an elected representative of the governing…
May 18, 2023
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Bar Fight Fatal 

Two Gunshot Wounds  The Mother’s Day altercation at Minot’s Original Bar and Nightclub that resulted in the death of Greyson Sletto, 32, Willow City, occurred inside the facility.   According to an affidavit of probable cause filed in north-central district court, the fatal shots were fired by Travis McDermott, 40,…
May 17, 2023
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Deceased Named in Minot Shooting 

Minot Police Department  Date: May 14 2023 Time: 0145 Hrs.  Type of incident: Shooting/Homicide  Location of incident: 720 N. Broadway – The Original Bar and Night Club  Identity of persons involved (unless protected):  Name: TRAVIS MCDERMOTT Gender: M Age: 40 Address:                  Minot  Name: GREYSON SLETTO Gender: M Age: 32…
May 15, 2023
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Reduced Charge for Man Who Ran Over North Dakota Teen 

Associated Press  WAHPETON (AP) — A man accused of intentionally running over an 18-year-old at a street dance in North Dakota had his charges reduced from murder to manslaughter, according to court documents filed ealier this week.  Shannon Brandt, 42, of Glenfield, North Dakota, initially said he hit and killed…
May 4, 2023
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Women's Prison Bill Passes Senate

Included in Department of Corrections Budget  lydia.hoverson@mydakotan.com   BISMARCK – The North Dakota State Senate passed a bill that provides funds for a new state prison for women. The action came during Thursday’s legislative session.  House Bill 1015, the department of correction and rehabilitation budget, would provide $131.2 million for the…
April 28, 2023
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Negligent Homicide Case Continues 

Request to Dismiss Denied  MINOT – A motion to dismiss a negligent homicide charge against Scott Parizek, 33, Ruthville, was denied in North-Central District Court Thursday by Judge Todd Cresap.   Parizek’s attorney, Steven Mottinger, Fargo, told Cresap that, “This is an unusual case” and “should be dismissed at this…
April 27, 2023
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Murder Trial Delayed 

Now Set for September  MINOT – The trial of a mother charged with the murder of her child’s father, has been delayed until September 9. The trial of Heather Hoffman, 22, originally set for April 24, was previously bumped to June 26, and now Sept. 9.  The change in dates…
April 24, 2023
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Burglary Suspect Arrested 

Ward County Sheriff’s Department  On April 20 th, 2023, late in the evening, the Ward County Sheriff’s Department responded to an attempted burglary at a Ward County firearms store. Deputies discovered a window to the firearms store was broken, a screen had been removed and an alarm was triggered, however…
April 21, 2023
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Charged Shooter Pleads Not Guilty 

Incident at Minot Lounge  MINOT – A man charged as a result of a shooting in which two people were wounded made an appearance in North-Central District Court Thursday.   Theophris Drake, 39, Birmingham, Alabama, entered a not guilty plea to each of five felony charges in front of Judge…
April 20, 2023
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House Extends Time Limits for Sexual Assault Lawsuits 

Bill Previously Passed Senate  BISMARCK – The North Dakota State House passed a bill this week to change the window of time for a person to file a lawsuit on the grounds of sexual assault.  The current statute of limitation in the century code for someone to sue if they…
April 7, 2023
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Man Charged with Multiple Felonies Appears in Court 

Appearance Cut Short  MINOT – It began with a gas drive off in Wilton and ended in downtown Minot. In between was a wild car chase that included gunshots, a McLean County sheriff’s deputy being struck by a stolen car, driving at high speed the wrong way on U.S. Highway…
April 5, 2023
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Ex-caregiver Sentenced in Pushing Death 

By The Associated Press  FARGO (AP) — A former employee at a North Dakota care center was sentenced Monday to two years in prison for the death of an elderly resident.  Rachel Cooper, 60, pleaded guilty to negligent homicide in the August 2021 death of 78-year-old Gary Pearson. In addition…
March 20, 2023
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Ruthville Man Arrested in Vehicle Death 

Ward County Sheriff’s Office Press Release  On March 20, 2023, Scott Ramon Parizek, Ruthville, a 33-year-old male, was arrested for Negligent Homicide and False Information to Law Enforcement, as the result of a month’s long investigation in to a motor vehicle crash in Northeast Ward County that occurred on August…
March 20, 2023
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Murder Case Continues 

Defendant enters not guilty plea  MINOT – A man charged with the shooting murder of another at a Minot hotel earlier this year has entered a not guilty plea in North-Central District Court.  Darrion Jackson, 33, Minot, is facing AA felony murder charge in the death of Timothy Smith, 38,…
March 16, 2023
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Verdict Reached in Gun Battle Chase 

Not guilty on all counts  MINOT – It was unanimous on all four counts – not guilty.  That was the decision reached by a 7-woman, 5-man jury in North Central District Court here shortly after noon Tuesday.  Donald Lee Cooper was facing four felony counts. They were AA felony Accomplice…
March 14, 2023
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Arson Arrest in Adams County 

Statement from Adams County SO 
March 14, 2023
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Accomplice to Murder Trial Awaits Verdict 

Final instructions given to jury  Update: The jury did not reach a decision Monday and resumed deliberations at 9 a.m. Tuesday. MINOT – Following closing arguments this morning, Judge Gary Lee sent the jury to the deliberation room in trial of Donald Lee Cooper, Jr.  shortly before 1 p.m. Cooper…
March 13, 2023
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Murder Trial Starts in Minot 

Jury Selection Began Monday  MINOT – A trial for which 10 days have been reserved in a North-Central District courtroom commenced with the jury selection process Monday. Donald Lee Cooper is facing four felony charges, including the AA charge of Accomplice to Murder-Extreme Indifference.  Cooper is also charged with Attempted…
March 6, 2023
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Bail Set for Pursuit Driver 

$1 Million for Lengthy List of Charges  MINOT – The man who led law enforcement on a chase that started in McLean County and ended in downtown Minot on Saturday, which included gunfire from sheriff’s deputies, made his initial appearance in a Minot courtroom late Monday.  Joshua Chambers, 18, Minot,…
February 27, 2023
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Trial Scheduled for Alleged Arsonist 

lydia.hoverson@mydakotan.com   TOWNER – A Minot man accused of starting multiple fires from Minot to Bottineau has a jury trial scheduled in McHenry County.  Last week, McHenry County court scheduled a trial on September 18 of this year for Justin Hanson, 42, Minot, who allegedly started over a dozen fires from…
February 25, 2023
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Murder Suspect Captured 

Charged in Shotgun Slaying  ROLLA – A man wanted for a AA felony murder charge was captured in Eddy County on Wednesday.  The Rolette County Sheriff’s Office announced the apprehension on social media with a brief statement: “Nicholas Poitra has been appended by law enforcement. Thank you for all your…
February 23, 2023
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Million Dollar Bond 

Accused Murderer makes Court Appearance  MINOT – Entering the courtroom under heavy guard, Casey Vollmer, 33, Minot, made his initial appearance in North-Central District Court late Tuesday. Vollmer is charged with the murder of Albert Granger, 57, a class AA felony punishable by up to life imprisonment without the possibility…
February 22, 2023
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Minot Man Charged with Murder 

Minot Police Department  DATE: 2 20 2023 2:15 PM   TYPE OF INCIDENT: Homicide   LOCATION OF INCIDENT: NW Minot hotel   IDENTITY OF PERSONS INVOLVED (UNLESS PROTECTED):   NAME: Casey Scott VOLLMER   GENDER: M AGE: 33   ADDRESS: Minot   NAME: Victim   GENDER: M   AGE: 57…
February 20, 2023
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Kidnapping Suspect Jeffs Waives Extradition to Utah 

Secluded Near Strawberry Lake  MINOT – A man wanted for a First-Degree Felony in Utah, discovered in a secluded area approximately two miles north of Strawberry Lake, made an appearance in North-Central District Court Monday afternoon on a charge of Fugitive from Justice. Heber Jeffs, 54, was wanted by police in…
February 13, 2023
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Polygamy Kidnapping Suspect Jailed in Minot 

Niece said to be OK  MINOT (AP) — The nephew of imprisoned Utah polygamous leader Warren Jeffs has been captured and is jailed in North Dakota on kidnapping charges, a sheriff said Monday. The 10-year-old girl he is accused of running off with was found safe, her father told a…
February 13, 2023
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Anita Knutson Murder Case Delayed Again 

Accused pretrial now set for June 14  MINOT – One of the longest running murder sagas in Minot history will take a few months longer. A scheduled March 1 pretrial hearing for Nichole Rice, Minot, charged with the murder of Anita Knutson, has been moved to June 14.  The lifeless…
February 10, 2023
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Pleas Entered in Day Care Death 

Provider Says Not Guilty to Murder  CARRINGTON – Patricia Wick, 48, Carrington, entered a not guilty plea to each of three charges during an appearance in Southeast District court Tuesday.  Wick was charged on January 30, 2023, with murder of an infant in her care, abuse of a child, and…
February 7, 2023
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Minnesota man gets life for deadly North Dakota shooting 

FARGO (AP) — A Minnesota man was sentenced Monday to life in prison after he pleaded guilty to three counts of murder in the deaths of two co-workers and their unborn child at a North Dakota factory.  A judge sentenced Anthony Reese Jr. to life in prison without the possibility…
February 7, 2023
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Minot Murder Victim Identified 

Minot Police Department  DATE: Jan 31 2023   TIME: 0400 HRS.   TYPE OF INCIDENT: Murder   LOCATION OF INCIDENT: NW Minot Hotel   IDENTITY OF PERSONS INVOLVED (UNLESS PROTECTED):   NAME: Darrion Deshon Jackson   GENDER: M AGE: 32   ADDRESS: Minot   NAME: Timothy Chrishaod Smith   GENDER:…
February 1, 2023
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Minot Murder and Arrest 

Minot Police Department  DATE: Jan 31 2023   TIME: 0400 HRS.   TYPE OF INCIDENT: Murder   LOCATION OF INCIDENT: NW Minot Hotel   PERSON(S) INVOLVED:  NAME: Darrion Deshon Jackson   GENDER: M   AGE: 32   ADDRESS: Minot   NAME: Protected   GENDER: M   AGE: 38   ADDRESS:…
January 31, 2023
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Carrington Day Care Provider Charged With Murder 

Foster County State’s Attorney Press Release  Patricia Ann Wick charged:  • Murder in Carrington, Foster County, Class AA Felony   • Abuse of Child in Carrington, Foster County, Class B Felony   • Operating a family childcare home without a license when required, Foster County, Class B Misdemeanor   •…
January 30, 2023
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Man gets 10 years in connection with reservation death 

BISMARCK, N.D. (AP) — A federal judge has sentenced a man to 10 years in prison in connection with a death on the Fort Berthold Indian Reservation.  The Bismarck Tribune reported Friday that Edward Finley Jr. pleaded guilty in September to voluntary manslaughter. U.S. District Judge Daniel Traynor sentenced him…
January 6, 2023
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Minot Murder Victim Named 

Minot Police Department  DATE: 12 30 22   TIME: 0140 HRS.   TYPE OF INCIDENT: Murder   LOCATION OF INCIDENT: 200 16th St SW Lamplighter Lounge   IDENTITY OF PERSONS INVOLVED (UNLESS PROTECTED): NAME: Justin McDermott  GENDER: M AGE: 34   ADDRESS: Minot   NAME: Kenny C. Javar   GENDER:…
December 31, 2022
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Man Murdered in Minot 

Minot Police Department News Release  The Minot Police Department responded to a report of gunshots in the parking lot of the Lamplighter lounge at approximately 1:40 a.m. on 12/30/22. On arrival officers discovered a 36 year old male victim with multiple gunshot wounds. He was pronounced dead at the scene.  …
December 30, 2022
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Inmate Captured  

Walkaway from MRCC   Who: TREVIS TOFI TESSARO   Age: 41   Description: 5’11”, 180 lbs., Brown Hair, Blue Eyes, Caucasian   Sentence: 2 years, 11 months, and 25 days for Criminal Mischief, Domestic Violence   NARRATIVE: On 12/29/2022 at 6:36 P.M., a resident of Missouri River Correctional Center walked…
December 30, 2022
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Alleged donut thief charged with brandishing hatchet 

Associated Press  BISMARCK, N.D. (AP) — A Bismarck man is in trouble with the law after he allegedly raised a hatchet toward a convenience store clerk who tried to stop him from stealing doughnuts.  Brently Iron Road, 36, faces a charge of felony terrorizing and misdemeanor criminal trespass in connection…
December 28, 2022
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Child Abuser Sentenced 

Four-year-old victim beaten  MINOT – A lot of tears and a lot of emotion was evident in a Minot courtroom Friday. Calvin Richard, 28, faced sentencing for child abuse resulting in permanent loss or impairment.   The case began October 18, 2020, when Minot Police responded to the Trinity Hospital…
December 23, 2022
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Life Without the Possibility of Parole 

Re-sentencing of Christopher Vickerman  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…
December 19, 2022
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Former tribal official sentenced 

Pled guilty of accepting bribes  BISMARCK, N.D. (AP) — A former Three Affiliated Tribes official was sentenced Monday to six years and three months in federal prison after pleading guilty to a scheme that involved soliciting and accepting bribes and kickbacks from a contractor providing construction services on the Fort…
November 21, 2022
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Two Killed in Fargo Shooting 

Victims Identified  FARGO, N.D. (AP) — Police have identified the two Fargo men who were killed in a shooting on Saturday.  Police said Jaquan Gatewood, 28, and Kierre Davies, 27, were found dead with gunshot wounds shortly after 3:15 a.m. Saturday.  The shooting took place outside an apartment house about…
November 21, 2022
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ND factory shooting will go to trial 

Man charged with killing three  FARGO, N.D. (AP) — A man charged with three counts of murder in the shooting deaths of two co-workers and their unborn child at a North Dakota factory last year has changed course and wants to proceed with a trial, the defense said during a…
October 31, 2022
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Highway Patrol Checkpoint Arrests 

Williams County Enforcement Event  RESULTS: Approximately 300 vehicles went through the checkpoint which was located on 26th St W, near the 1500 block in Williston. The checkpoint was conducted from 9:00 pm to 11:00 pm.   Seven drivers were tested for impairment and four were arrested for DUI. In addition,…
October 31, 2022
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North Dakota Targeted by Beef Thieves 

Feds: Theft of frozen beef in Nebraska uncovers crime ring  LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — An investigation into the theft this summer of several semitrailers loaded with frozen beef from Nebraska has led to arrests and uncovered a multimillion-dollar theft ring targeting meatpacking plants in six Midwestern states, federal authorities said. …
October 26, 2022
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Former North Dakota tribal official pleads guilty to bribery 

Sentencing date set  BISMARCK, N.D. (AP) — A former government official of the Mandan, Hidatsa and Arikara Nation accused of accepting bribes and kickbacks from a construction contractor pleaded guilty Tuesday to federal charges in North Dakota.  Randall Phelan, 58, of Mandaree, was an elected representative of the governing body…
October 26, 2022
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Dealing Death in North Dakota 

Fentanyl: Big money, big problem  MINOT – It's a dangerous drug, as dangerous as ever seen by law enforcement on the streets of the city. A miniscule dose of fentanyl all too often results in the death of the user.  The illegal drug comes in small packages with a big…
October 24, 2022
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Burlington Man Sentenced to Two Years 

Final defendant in fake military gear scheme  PROVIDENCE, R.I. (AP) — The third and final defendant in an illegal scheme to supply $20 million worth of substandard counterfeit clothing and gear made in China to the U.S. military has been sentenced to two years in prison, federal prosecutors said.  Terry…
October 21, 2022
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Minot Man Charged with Setting Multiple Fires 

Damage costly in rural areas  lydia.hoverson@mydakotan.com  TOWNER – A man who set multiple fires from Minot to Bottineau Wednesday may have caused hundreds of thousands of dollars worth of property damage, says McHenry County Sheriff Trey Skager.  Skager said though fire departments involved are still in the process of locating…
October 20, 2022
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Charges Filed in Explosive Case 

1,000 pounds of explosives discovered  WILLISTON, N.D. (AP) — A North Dakota man accused of storing more than 1,000 pounds of homemade explosives in his garage is now facing criminal charges.  Court records show 28-year-old Ross Petrie, of Williston, is charged with a felony called 'release of destructive forces.'  An…
October 14, 2022
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Cold Justice Targets Killer  

Knutson Murder Case Delays  MINOT – A national television show investigative team is credited with murder charges being filed in one of the highest profile murder cases in this city’s history. However, the subsequent arrest of Nichole Rice, accused of murdering roommate Anita Knutson in 2007, has been slow to…
October 12, 2022
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Drug Seizure near Thompson  

Federal charges  NARRATIVE: On 10/4/2022 around 8:35 pm, a state trooper made a routine traffic stop on I-29 approximately 1 mile south of Thompson. The vehicle was a 2017 Nissan Altima. During the traffic stop, the trooper developed probable cause to believe there were illegal drugs in the vehicle. A…
October 9, 2022

Little Evidence of Political Motivation

Little evidence of political argument before teen's death BISMARCK, N.D. (AP) — There is little indication that an 18-year-old who died after being struck by an SUV in North Dakota was a political extremist like the driver claimed.Investigators say none of the witnesses they have interviewed support the idea that…
September 26, 2022
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Young Conservatives Mourn Teen Death 

North Dakota Young Republicans React to Alleged Political Murder  lydia.hoverson@mydakotan.com   MCHENRY – After the tragic death of Cayler Ellingson, 18, who was hit in McHenry Sunday by a man who said he drove his vehicle into the teen after an alleged political argument, young conservatives and members of the North Dakota…
September 23, 2022
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North Dakotan Loses Poaching Case

Appeal Denied in New Mexico SANTA FE, N.M. (AP) — The New Mexico Supreme Court has upheld an appeals court's judgment that ordered a man to pay $74,000 restitution to the state Game and Fish Department for poaching a trophy mule deer buck in December 2015.The restitution included $20,000 for…
September 15, 2022
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Sheriff: Brothers' dispute led to triple murder-suicide

CANDO (AP) — A dispute between two brothers led to a triple murder and suicide last month in a North Dakota wheat field, authorities said Friday.Towner County Sheriff Andrew Hillier said autopsy results and evidence at the scene suggested Robert Bracken, 59, killed his brother, his son and a third…
September 9, 2022
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Rice Pleads Not Guilty

ND woman pleads not guilty to killing roommate in 2007 MINOT (AP) — A woman accused of fatally stabbing her roommate 15 years ago in Minot pleaded not guilty Thursday after a judge determined there was sufficient evidence to send her to trial on felony murder.Nichole Rice, 34, appeared in…
September 8, 2022
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What’s With All The Wallering? 

Facts of Law  In the Appalachian Mountains, where I grew up, to “waller” meant to lay around lazily and do nothing, like a pig in the mud. It’s a slang term for “wallow,” with a Southern twang.  In North Dakota, “Waller” has taken a whole new meaning. The U.S. Supreme…
September 7, 2022
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Senators Oppose Marshal’s Service Plan 

Pushing Back on Proposal to Release Criminal Illegal Immigrants into U.S.  WASHINGTON – North Dakota Senators John Hoeven and Kevin Cramer this week joined Senator Thom Tillis, R-N.C., in urging the Director of the U.S. Marshals Service Ronald Davis to reconsider the Marshals’ proposed policy change that would permit the…
September 2, 2022
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Alleged Attacker in Court

 Defendant Faces Myriad of Charges  Kim.fundingsland@mydakotan.com  MINOT – When each of five charges were read to the defendant the response was the same, a loud and firm “not guilty.”  Karleon Gregory, 24, Minot, had a preliminary hearing in front of Judge Gary Lee in North-Central District Court Thursday. The charges…
September 1, 2022
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Trial Set for Accused Killer 

Mother Allegedly Shot Father  Kim.fundingsland@mydakotan.com MINOT -- “The murder of one parent by another is the ultimate act of child abuse,” Judge Gary Lee told an accused killer and her attorney during a pretrial conference in a North-Central District courtroom Wednesday.  The accused was Heather Hoffman, 24, Minot. Moments earlier…
August 31, 2022
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Police Shooting Justified

Attorney General rules fatal Fargo police shooting justified  FARGO, (AP) — A Fargo police officer was justified in fatally shooting a man at an apartment complex in July, North Dakota Attorney General Drew Wrigley said Monday.  Wrigley said Officer Adam O'Brien, a more than 10-year veteran of the department, fired…
August 29, 2022
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Prison for Murder Assistant

Whitney Racine Sentenced in Emotional Courtroom MINOT – Whitney Racine, 35, Minot, was sentenced to 18 months in the State Penitentiary during an appearance in a Minot courtroom Friday, August 26.   Racine was arrested and charged with Facilitation of Murder-Extreme Indifference-Adult victim, on February 25, 2022. The charge is a…
August 26, 2022
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High Profile Court Cases

Court Appearances  Kim.fundingsland@mydakotan.com  MINOT – Two men involved in high profile courts cases appeared before North-Central District Court Judge Todd Cresap Wednesday.   Mathew Anderson, charged with Murder-Extreme Indifference, a AA felony that is the highest level of charge possible in North Dakota, sat in his Ward County Jail black and…
August 24, 2022
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Badlands Body Dumping Ground

WATFORD CITY – What was found remains a mystery, but there were several agencies involved. Numerous law enforcement vehicles converged Wednesday on Badlands terrain adjacent to the North Unit of Theodore Roosevelt National Park.  “It’s kind of a hotspot for suicide and body dumping,” said Lissa Yellow Bird-Chase, Whiteshield.  The…
August 19, 2022
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Tobacco Compliance Checks

On August 18 the Minot Police Department administered Tobacco Compliance Checks on 39 licensed tobacco retailers in the city. We are pleased to announce that ALL retailers passed the check by refusing to sell tobacco products to our underage volunteers.   Tobacco Compliance Checks are required by ordinance to be…
August 18, 2022

Report Faults Prison Guard's Checks in ND Murderer's Suicide

By JAMES MacPHERSON Associated Press BISMARCK, N.D. (AP) — An investigation into the prison suicide of a man convicted in a 2019 quadruple slaying in North Dakota found that he had covered his cell window with cardboard and a guard failed to follow proper procedures in conducting required checks.The investigation…
August 17, 2022
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Children found safe…

A kidnapping that was solved last week received little attention in the U.S. media, but had possible implications for North Dakota and Montana. It certainly did in South Dakota because that is where two children, a brother and sister, were found safe. A man named Benjamin Moore, a known sex…
August 14, 2022
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Helping Victims of Assault in Minot 

MINOT – The Minot Police Department recently changed the structure of its interview rooms for sexual assault victims, to make it more comfortable for the victims being interviewed. Kristin Guerton, detective in the investigations division for the Minot PD, said she heard of an organization called Project Beloved: The Molly…
August 13, 2022
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Officials: North Dakota Murderer Kills Himself in Prison

By JAMES MacPHERSON Associated Press  BISMARCK (AP) — A man who was serving life sentences for killing four people at a North Dakota business in what authorities say was one of the state's most gruesome crimes has killed himself in prison, authorities said.  The North Dakota Highway Patrol said a…
August 1, 2022
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Knutson Murder Case Delayed

MINOT – The lengthening murder saga of a Minot State University freshman has been extended once again.  Nichole Rice, Velva, was arrested in March of this year, charged with the 2007 murder of roommate Anita Knutson. Rice was scheduled to make a preliminary hearing August 4 in front of North-Central…
July 29, 2022
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Fentanyl Seized Near Bismarck

On 7/19/21 around 2:46 p.m. a North Dakota State Patrol trooper made a routine traffic stop on I-94 approximately 13 miles east of Bismarck. The vehicle was a 2020 Hyundai Kona rental car. During the traffic stop, the trooper developed probable cause to believe there were illegal drugs in the…
July 21, 2022
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Can't Make it Better

MINOT -- “Whatever I do is not going to make it better for anyone,” said Judge Gary Lee shortly before sentencing Eric Rod, Minot.   Rod appeared in a Ward County courtroom Friday in shackles, handcuffs, and wearing black and white striped prisoner clothing issued by the Ward County Jail. He…
July 15, 2022
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Dead Dogs in Court

MINOT — Two persons implicated in the deaths of two dogs and the near starvation of three others, made their initial appearance in North Central District Court this week. Kayelynn Mercier, 20, and Jim Diaz, 21, both Minot Air Force Base, are each facing five counts of Animal Cruelty, Class…
June 24, 2022
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Million Dollar Arrest

MINOT — Minot Police and the Ward County Narcotics Task Force have arrested an individual in conjunction with the seizure of over 15,000 fentanyl pills and 80 grams of fentanyl powder. The estimated street value of the drugs is over $1 million. According to a press release, on Sunday, June…
June 21, 2022
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Facts of Law : Criminal Restitution Isn't As Clear As We Think

In any criminal case, a crime victim is entitled to “restitution,” the absolute right to be repaid for any financial losses suffered. This is a right protected in both our North Dakota Century Code, and our State Constitution. In recent years, with the adoption of constitutionally-protected victim’s rights in Marsy’s…
June 18, 2022
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Hospital Threats Lead to 13 Charges

MINOT — He told Minot Police it was his strange sense of humor. Nobody was laughing. David Wierenga, 36, Minot, is the man police say is the person responsible for a lockdown at one of Minot’s largest and most recognizable facilities – Trinity Hospital. According to police, Wierenga attempted to…
June 9, 2022
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Arrest Made in Trinity Threat Case

MINOT — The Minot Police Department says the investigation of online threats made towards Trinity Hospital has led to the arrest of David Wierenga, 36, Minot. Police say on June 7 at 11:15 a.m. they arrested Wierenga without incident at his place of employment in SE Minot for Terrorizing (Class…
June 8, 2022
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Multi-Agency Patrol Enforcement Detail in Minot with Aircraft

MINOT — Law enforcement agencies in the Minot area have encountered increased numbers of motorists that flee when officers attempt to stop them. Due to this increase of fleeing motorists, on June 2nd, the North Dakota Highway Patrol, Ward County Sheriff's Office, and the Minot Police Department participated in an…
June 6, 2022
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Another Arrest Made in Murder Case

MINOT — The Minot Police Department says it has arrested another person in connection to the February homicide of Wade Allen Goodale, 42, Minot. Police say they have now arrested Regina D. Goodale, 34, Minot, and charged her with being an accomplice to the murder. She is in custody at…
June 3, 2022
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2 People Charged with Animal Cruelty on MAFB

MINOT AFB — The Ward County Sheriff’s Department says it arrested two people on the Minot Air Force Base for animal cruelty. The department says on May 26 it responded to a residence on the Minot Air Force Base to a report of animal neglect received from Minot Air Force…
June 3, 2022
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Facts of Law: Anatomy of a Murder (Bond Hearing)

The Anita Knutson murder made huge headlines recently when Nichole Rice was formally charged and arrested in the case. She made her initial appearance the afternoon after her arrest. After being informed of her rights, the possible penalties of being convicted of murder, and setting future court dates, the Court…
May 28, 2022
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Killer Classmate or Friend

MINOT — They were both graduates of Velva High School. The following year they shared a northwest Minot apartment. Today one is a grave and the other, charged with murder, is out on bond. Killer classmate or friend? That is the question that may be put to a jury sometime…
May 26, 2022
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Man Arrested at Airport for Criminal Trespass

MINOT — Minot Police say an early morning flight Friday had to be cancelled after a man entered a secured part of the airport. They say they first responded to the Minot International Airport at 12:16 a.m. for a report of a man being upset about missing his flight. While…
May 13, 2022
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Guilty of Murder... Again

MINOT — The man who was found guilty of murder, sentenced to 40 years in the North Dakota State Penitentiary and had his sentence reversed on appeal, admitted his guilt during retrial proceedings Thursday. Bradley Joe Morales, 32, was originally convicted in the stabbing death of his ex-girlfriend following a…
May 12, 2022
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Murder Mom in Court

MINOT — A young woman charged with murder had a glimpse of what her future may hold during her initial court appearance Wednesday. Seated in an orange jumpsuit and secured in handcuffs, Heather Hoffman, 24, Minot, listened as Judge Douglas Mattson explained to her that her charged offense of murder…
April 27, 2022
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Police Make an Arrest in Homicide Case

MINOT — Minot Police say they arrested a woman this afternoon in connection to the murder of Alexander Eckert. They say they took Heather Renee Faith Hoffman, 24, of Minot, into custody at 3:45 p.m. and transported her to the Ward County Jail where she was charged with Homicide (AA…
April 26, 2022
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Plea Disagreement in Murder Case

MINOT — A plea agreement brokered by the Ward County State’s Attorney’s office goes against the wishes of the family of slain Connie Rod, Minot, says Rod’s former husband. Daniel Tyler, Minot, had three daughters while married to Connie Rod. The daughters were 15, 13, and 11 years old when…
April 26, 2022
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Police Investigating Homicide

***Updated at 2:20 p.m. on April 25, 2022 to include name of the victim.*** MINOT — Minot Police say they are investigating a homicide that happened early Friday morning. They say officers responded at 12:41 a.m. to a report of an unresponsive man laying in front of a residence in…
April 22, 2022
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Murder to Manslaughter to Jail

MINOT — A Minot man removed his suit coat, was handcuffed, and promptly escorted to jail following an appearance in a Ward County courtroom Wednesday. Erik Steven Rod, 43, entered a guilty plea to a charge of manslaughter during a plea agreement hearing. Rod was initially charged with murder, a…
April 20, 2022
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NDHP Ramping Up Enforcement Efforts for 4/20

Drug-impaired driving has become an increasing danger on North Dakota roadways. In recent years, several states have passed laws allowing marijuana use on a recreational or medical basis, but it is illegal to use marijuana and then drive. On Wednesday, April 20, 2022, there will likely be an increase in…
April 18, 2022
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Erik Rod Murder Plea Delayed

MINOT — A Minot man charged with murder had his change of plea hearing delayed Tuesday. Erik Rod, 43, was to have entered change of plea in North Central District Court before Judge Gary Lee at 1 p.m. However, due to a blizzard warning Rod’s attorney, Patrick Waters of Bismarck,…
April 12, 2022
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Man Charged with Terrorizing following Evacuation of Ward County Courthouse, Administration Building

MINOT — The Ward County Sheriff's Department says today at approximately 10:40 a.m. the Ward County State’s Attorney’s Office reported that they received a phone call from a man making a bomb and assassination threat to the Ward County State’s Attorney’s Office and Judges. Due to the threat, the Ward…
April 7, 2022
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Minot Man Appears in Court for Multiple Charges

MINOT — The man who led police on a pursuit Friday evening made his initial court appearances Monday for multiple charges related to the pursuit. Minot Police say at approximately 6:53 p.m. an off-duty law enforcement officer witnessed a woman being dragged by a vehicle in SW Minot. A Minot…
April 4, 2022
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Man Arrested After Report of Woman Being Dragged by a Vehicle

MINOT — Minot Police say they arrested a man earlier tonight after a vehicle pursuit in Minot.  According to the MPD, the pursuit was initiated after a citizen reported seeing a woman being dragged by a vehicle. The man is in custody and multiple charges are pending.  At this time…
April 1, 2022
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Arrest Warrants Issued in Catalytic Converter Theft Case

MINOT — The Ward County Sheriff's Department says it has arrest warrants for five individuals connected to multiple catalytic converter thefts. According to the release, the warrants are the result of a lengthy investigation dating back to the fall of 2021. During the investigation, law enforcement discovered Richard Yecoshenko would…
March 31, 2022
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Ward County Gets its First Drug Recognition Expert

MINOT — The Ward County Sheriff’s Department has its first certified Drug Recognition Expert (DRE), Deputy Casey Visocsky. Visocsky completed a three-week training on recognizing drug impairment. “We did two weeks in Bismarck, with deputies from all over the state,” Visocsky explained. “There was 14 in the class, and 13…
March 30, 2022
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Traffic Stop, Pursuit, Injury Crash

HILLSBORO — The North Dakota Highway Patrol says a woman was injured early Sunday morning after she took off during a traffic stop and crashed into two houses and two trees. According to the NDHP, a Traill County Sheriff’s Deputy was engaged in a traffic stop with a male driver…
March 27, 2022
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Stutsman County Pursuit

***Updated at 8:30 p.m. on March 24, 2022 to include suspect's name and charges*** STUTSMAN COUNTY — The North Dakota Highway Patrol says a traffic stop lead to a pursuit that ended in a slough. According to the NDHP's release, a NDHP Trooper attempted to stop a motorist near Jamestown…
March 24, 2022
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Murder Bond Comparison

Release of Knutson Murder Suspect MINOT — Attention was widespread and immediate regarding the recent arrest of a suspect in the 15-year-old Anita Knutson murder case. The community was still absorbing the stunning news when came the revelation that the suspect had been released from jail. Minot Police had arrested…
March 23, 2022
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Woman Abducted from South Dakota, Located in North Dakota

***Updated March 20, 2022 at 1:40 p.m. to include charges*** EDGELEY — The North Dakota Highway Patrol says they located a woman hours after she had been abducted in South Dakota. According to the NDHP, local authorities were made aware Friday night that Ryan Degroat, 35, Ogema, Minn., had taken…
March 19, 2022
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Minot PD Training New K-9

MINOT — The Minot Police have a new canine and are in the process of training him to replace their older dog. Dave Chapman, administrative lieutenant of the Minot Police Department and the one responsible for the canine team, says that the previous canine, Lois, was “nearing the end of…
March 18, 2022
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Anita Knutson Case

MINOT — An unsolved murder draped over the Minot Police Department for 15 years finally resulted in an arrest this week. 34-year-old Nichole Rice, Minot, was taken into custody Wednesday and charged with murdering her roommate, Anita Knutson. Knutson was 18 years old at the time of her death. Rice,…
March 17, 2022
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Arrest Made in Anita Knutson Case

MINOT — Minot Police say they have made an arrest in the Anita Knutson investigation. Knutson was an 18-year-old Minot State student who was murdered in her Northwest Minot apartment back in June 2007. Chief of Police John Klug announced this afternoon at a press conference that police had taken…
March 16, 2022
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Police Investigating Shots Fired in NW Minot

MINOT — The Minot Police Department says it is investigating a report of shots fired during an altercation at a northwest Minot residence Monday night. Investigators say they believe the shots happened around 10:30 p.m. during a confrontation between two groups. At some point during the altercation, several people attempted…
March 15, 2022
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Woman Shot, Suspect Arrested

MINOT — Minot Police say they responded to a report of a shooting early Sunday morning. According to police, officers were dispatched to a northwest Minot residence shortly after 1 a.m. for a report that a female victim had been shot in the leg by an acquaintance. On arrival, they…
March 13, 2022
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NDHP Seeking Suspect Involved in High-Speed Pursuit on I-94

MAPLETON — The North Dakota Highway Patrol is asking for help finding the person involved in a high-speed pursuit on Interstate-94 Friday morning around 9 a.m. near Mapleton. According to the NDHP, it started when a trooper attempted to stop a Pontiac Grand Prix for failing to maintain its lane.…
March 11, 2022

Son Sentenced to 100 Years for Killing Father

Emotional Testimony from Mother MINOT — He murdered his father, widowed his mother, denied grandchildren their grandfather, and complained to the judge that he hadn’t been outside in three years. A few moments later Christopher Vickerman received a sentence of 100 years behind bars. Vickerman, 32, appeared at his sentencing…
March 1, 2022
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Minot Homicide: Police Make Another Arrest, Victim Identified

MINOT — Minot Police say they have arrested another person in connection to Thursday's homicide. They arrested Whitney Racine, 35, of Minot and charged her with being an accomplice to murder in connection to the death of Wade Goodale, 42, of Minot. Mathew Anderson, 34, of Minot is charged with…
February 25, 2022
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Arrest Made in Homicide

***Update*** MINOT — Minot Police say they have arrested and charged Mathew R. Anderson, 34, of Minot with Murder in reference to this incident. He is in custody of the Ward County Jail awaiting initial appearance. ***Initial Release*** MINOT — The Minot Police Department says it is investigating a homicide…
February 24, 2022
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Minot Police Investigating Homicide

MINOT — The Minot Police Department says it is investigating a homicide that occurred in southeast Minot in the early morning hours of February 24. Police say they responded to a SE Minot address at 2:12 a.m. for the report of an altercation. Upon arrival they discovered a 42-year-old man…
February 24, 2022
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Minot Police Warn of Phone Scam Resurfacing

MINOT — The Minot Police Department says it has received reports of a scam attempt resurfacing in the Magic City. Residents are reporting a variation on what is known as the “Jury Duty” scam. Would be victims are being called by scammers informing them they have a warrant for their…
February 16, 2022
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Rarity in Minot Courtroom 

Murder Suspects Appear  MINOT — It rarely happens, but it did at the Ward County courthouse Wednesday. Two men charged in separate cases of Class AA felony murder made consecutive appearances in the same courtroom.   Milo Whitetail, 56, Minot, was the first to appear before Judge Douglas Mattson. Whitetail is…
February 9, 2022
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Yes Sir Officer, er, Ma'am 

Women Wanted for Law Enforcement  BISMARCK – Wanted: women for law enforcement.  That’s the purpose behind the 30x30 Initiative scheduled to kick-off here in early February. 30x30 is a coalition of professional law enforcement organizations looking to increase the number of women in the ranks of law enforcement. The goal…
January 30, 2022
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Ward County Congratulates NACo Leadership Graduates 

Special meeting for reversal of dedicated right-of-ways set for January 26  WARD COUNTY—Lieutenant Roxanne Houim from the Ward County Detention Center and IT/GIS Director Jason Blowers, recently completed NACo’s leadership programs and shared their personal testimonies before the board of commissioners on Tuesday, Jan. 18. [See 20:40]  NACo (National Association…
January 19, 2022
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Ward County Sheriff’s Department Seeks New Equipment with JAG Funds 

Desired equipment includes evidence drying cabinet and crime scene barriers   WARD COUNTY—Ward County Commissioners recently approved the purchase of an evidence drying cabinet and crime scene barriers with funds gained through the Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant (JAG) Program.  Named in honor of New York City police officer…
January 12, 2022
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Vehicle Pursuit

High-Speed Chase Near Rugby The North Dakota Highway Patrol apprehended Arsenio James following a high-speed chase and use of a pursuit intervention technique (PIT). The pursuit began at 12:19 p.m. Saturday, approximately 11 miles east of Rugby, when a HP trooper attempted to stop a stolen vehicle. The driver fled…
November 1, 2021
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