Ian Cramer, the adult son of North Dakota Senator Kevin Cramer, received a 28-year prison sentence on Monday for his role in a high-speed chase that resulted in the death of a Mercer County Sheriff's Deputy. The sentencing follows his guilty plea to multiple charges, including homicide while fleeing a peace officer.
Cramer, 43, admitted to the charges in September which stemmed from a December 6, 2023, incident. This involved a vehicle pursuit and subsequent crash that claimed the life of Deputy Paul Martin, 53.
State District Judge Bobbi Weiler imposed a 38-year sentence with 10 years suspended, along with three years of probation. Additionally, the judge recommended treatment for Cramer's addiction and mental health issues. However, Judge Weiler clarified that the actual time served could be less than 28 years due to the Department of Corrections' policies and the possibility of parole.
During the hearing, Cramer apologized to Deputy Martin's family, stating he had no intention to cause the tragedy and suggesting he needed further help. The sentencing proceedings also underscored Cramer's long-term struggles with addiction and mental health. Prosecutors highlighted his history of drug use that has led to a self-induced mental health state.
Cramer's mother, Kris Cramer, expressed her remorse, acknowledging her son’s mental health struggles and personal responsibility for the events of that December day. She had initially taken her son to a hospital due to mental health concerns, which preceded the subsequent pursuit.
Court documents detailed how Cramer fled the hospital, leading to a pursuit where he reached speeds over 100 mph, striking Deputy Martin's vehicle head-on after spikes were set out to flatten his tires. Deputy Martin was pronounced dead at a local hospital.
Mercer County State's Attorney Todd Schwarz honored the memory of Deputy Martin, recognizing his dedication and kind nature. He highlighted Martin's positive impact on the community, as well as Martin’s retirement plans that were in place a week before the fatal incident.
Ian Cramer's legal journey included an initial not guilty plea before changing his plea. Separate felony charges related to the hospital incident are still pending, with a jury trial scheduled for January.
Senator Kevin Cramer expressed disappointment over what he perceived as a dismissal of mental health concerns within the judicial process. The senator affirmed his belief that his son's actions were due to choices he made over several years.
