Former North Dakota Senator Ray Holmberg faces charges for traveling to Europe for illicit activities with minors. The 80-year-old politician’s plea agreement could result in a short prison term and dismissal of additional charges.
Former Senator Pleads Guilty to Federal Charges
A former North Dakota Senator will plead guilty to a federal charge related to traveling to Europe for illicit activities with minors. This admission marks a significant fall from grace for the 80-year-old politician.
Plea Agreement Filed in Court
Senator Ray Holmberg signed a plea agreement last week, which was officially filed on Monday. The agreement details his intentions to engage in illegal activities during trips to Europe.
Disgraced Senator’s Dark Travels
Holmberg’s trips to Prague, Czech Republic, were reportedly aimed at exploiting minors. These activities allegedly occurred between June 2011 and November 2016.
Accusations of Child Pornography
In addition to his travels, Holmberg faced accusations of receiving child pornography. These incidents allegedly took place between November 2012 and March 2013.
Initial Plea and Upcoming Trial
Holmberg initially pleaded not guilty in October but faces a trial in September. The charges could result in up to 30 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
Resignation Amid Scandal
The senator, a grandfather of five, resigned in Spring 2022, citing stress and memory issues. This resignation followed his decision not to seek re-election.
Alleged Communication with Convicted Offender
Reports allege Holmberg exchanged 72 text messages with Nicholas James Morgan-Derosier in August 2021. Morgan-Derosier was in prison for child pornography and sex abuse crimes.
Connection to Local Business
Morgan-Derosier, the owner of a patio and yard care business, was in custody during the communication. Holmberg claimed their messages concerned patio work.
Home Search and Evidence Seizure
Law enforcement searched Holmberg’s home in November 2021, seizing video discs and other items. This search added to the mounting evidence against the former senator.
Co-Conspirator Sentenced
In May, Morgan-Derosier received a 40-year prison sentence for child sexual abuse images. His sentencing took place in U.S. District Court in Fargo.
Prosecutors Recommend Light Sentence for Holmberg
According to his plea agreement, prosecutors will recommend a sentence on the lower end of the guideline range. They will also move to dismiss Holmberg’s charge of receiving child sexual abuse material.
Attorney Predicts Short Prison Term
Holmberg’s attorney, Mark Friese, indicated that prosecutors might recommend a prison term of three to four years. The plea deal also requires Holmberg to register as a sex offender.
Court Procedures to Follow Plea Agreement
A plea hearing will be scheduled, and a presentence investigation report will be ordered. The travel offense Holmberg faces does not carry a mandatory sentence, while the dismissed charge does.
Longest-Serving State Senator
Holmberg served in the senate from 1976 to 2022, making him the longest-serving state senator in the U.S. He was a former chairman of the Legislative Management Committee and the Senate Appropriations Committee.
Extensive Travel on Public Funds
Since 1999, Holmberg traveled to over 30 states and countries, including Canada, Puerto Rico, and Norway. Travel records revealed he used public funds for trips to Prague, Amsterdam, and Berlin.
Funding and Accountability
The trips were organized through the Germany-based Global Bridges teacher exchange program, funded by the North Dakota Legislature. The North Dakota School Boards Association returned approximately $142,000 to the state.
Unclear Allegations of Wrongdoing
It remains uncertain if any wrongdoing occurred during Holmberg’s publicly funded trips. Authorities have not specified any misconduct related to his travels.
