Dakota

North Dakota Federal Judge Criticizes Biden’s Commutation Decisions, Cites Lack of Consultation and Impact on Victims

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BISMARCK, N.D. — This month, President Joe Biden announced an unprecedented act of clemency, commuting the federal sentences of nearly 1,500 individuals. According to the White House, these individuals had previously been transitioned to home confinement during the COVID-19 pandemic and had successfully reintegrated into their communities. However, this sweeping decision has faced criticism from a Bismarck-based judge, adding a layer of controversy to what the administration has labeled as a progressive step toward justice reform. U.S. District Court Judge Daniel Hovland, serving since 2002, has voiced significant concerns regarding the lack of consultation with … Read more

Dakota County Bids Farewell to Judge ‘The Hammer’ McManus After 27 Years of Tough but Fair Justice

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Hastings, MN — After dedicating 27 years to the bench, Dakota County Judge Timothy McManus, known colloquially as “The Hammer” for his stringent approach to repeat offenders, is retiring. As he steps down on his 66th birthday this Thursday, McManus leaves behind a legacy marked by a balance of toughness and fairness, an approach he described not as mean but as a necessary firmness in the face of continued criminal activity. McManus first became aware of his nickname, which implies a no-nonsense attitude in the courtroom, over two decades ago, thanks to discussions among inmates … Read more

North Dakota Real Estate Developer Faces $3 Million Foreclosure Amid Multiple Legal Challenges

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Minot, ND — Todd Berning, the former CEO and founder of EPIC Companies, has been named as a defendant in a multi-million-dollar foreclosure lawsuit. The legal actions stem from a $3 million mortgage default impacting several properties developed by his company in North Dakota. Filed by Bravera Bank in North Central District Court on October 18, the lawsuit alleges that Henry Land Holding LLC, now managed by EPIC Holdings LLC, failed to meet their financial obligations. EPIC Holdings LLC took ownership after United Community Bank, the original mortgagee, merged with Bravera in October of 2023. … Read more

Federal Prosecutors Seek Jail for Ex-North Dakota Senator Pending Sentence on Child Exploitation Charges

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BISMARCK, N.D. — Government prosecutors are urging a federal judge to reconsider the release of a former North Dakota state senator, Ray Holmberg, as he awaits sentencing following his guilty plea to charges of engaging in sexual activity with minors abroad. Holmberg, who served extensively in the state legislature, admitted to traveling to Prague between 2011 and 2016 with the intent to pay for sexual acts with children. This case highlights ongoing concerns about child exploitation and the measures in place to prevent abuse by individuals in positions of power. Legal documents reveal that despite … Read more