Grand Forks Man Found Guilty of Manslaughter in Fatal Altercation; Sentencing Scheduled for December

GRAND FORKS, N.D. — A Grand Forks man has been convicted of manslaughter in connection with the death of 49-year-old Anthony Kiehl, whose fatal injuries stemmed from an encounter last year. Donald Bartlette, 46, was found guilty by a jury after a trial that commenced on Tuesday and concluded with a verdict announced on Friday. The incident occurred last October during a confrontation between Bartlette and Kiehl. Bartlette alleged that Kiehl approached him with a knife, prompting him to retaliate. The confrontation left Kiehl with severe head and facial injuries, ultimately leading to his death … Read more

Three Forks Judge Carl Mohler Steps into the Courtroom Spotlight: Balancing Justice with a Passion for Strongman Competitions

Three Forks, Montana — Carl Mohler, who was appointed as the city court judge of Three Forks three years ago, recently presided over his first court case. This milestone came after a waiting period marked by community service aspirations and rigorous training in the nuances of local law. Mohler moved to Three Forks in 2013, where he expressed interest in contributing to the city’s governance. City Clerk Crystal Turner and Treasurer Kelly Smith recognized his commitment and invited him to interview for the judicial position following the retirement of his predecessor. Mohler successfully secured the … Read more

Decades-Old College Roommate Murder Case Reopened in Grand Forks Trial

Grand Forks, ND — The opening statements in the trial of Nichole Rice, accused of the near two-decade-old murder of her college roommate, were delivered Tuesday in a courtroom shifted to Grand Forks due to heavy pretrial media exposure. Rice faces allegations over the death of 18-year-old Anita Knutson, originally from Minot, an incident that stunned the local community several years ago. With nearly 150 jurors screened, most were unfamiliar with the details of the case that dates back to their college days. Prosecutors argue that a deep-seated animosity between Rice and Knutson led to … Read more

Trial Begins for Woman Accused in 2007 Roommate Murder Case in Grand Forks

GRAND FORKS, N.D. – The trial for Nichole Rice, a 37-year-old woman from Minot charged with the 2007 murder of her roommate Anita Knutson, began with jury selection this Monday in Grand Forks. As proceedings unfold, the courtroom anticipates the initiation of opening statements following the finalization of the jury panel, including alternates. The journey to this trial has been complex, with the selection process revealing underlying community sentiments. Initially slated for Ward County, the trial was relocated to Grand Forks last summer. This decision came after responses from potential jurors via questionnaires hinted that … Read more