Former North Dakota Senator Faces Sentencing for Exploiting Minors

BISMARCK, N.D. (AP) — Ray Holmberg, an 81-year-old former North Dakota senator, is set to be sentenced Wednesday for traveling to Europe with the intent to pay for sex with minors, leaving a trail of exploitation behind him for decades. Holmberg, who served in the Senate from 1976 to 2022, faced charges after pleading guilty last year to traveling with the intent of engaging in illicit sexual activity.

Prosecutors are recommending a three-year prison term and lifetime supervised release. Holmberg could face a maximum of 30 years in prison along with a $250,000 fine for his crimes. Acting U.S. Attorney Jennifer Klemetsrud Puhl describes Holmberg’s actions as a grave abuse of power, as he used his roles as a high school guidance counselor and state lawmaker to exploit vulnerable boys and young men.

New court documents reveal that Holmberg frequented Prague between 2011 and 2021, allegedly visiting a brothel that catered to underage boys. He repeatedly traveled from Grand Forks, North Dakota, to the Czech Republic with the ulterior motive of engaging in commercial sex with adolescents. The widespread nature of his actions showcases a deeply troubling pattern of grooming and manipulation, culminating in heartbreaking consequences for some of his victims.

Among the victims was a Canadian teenager who, after being manipulated by Holmberg into sharing sexually explicit materials, later took his own life. In her filing, Puhl expressed, “no doubt Holmberg’s conduct contributed to his struggles.” Holmberg is also accused of using aliases to discuss his sexual interests with colleagues and friends.

While Holmberg’s attorney, Mark Friese, is advocating for a lighter sentence due to his client’s age and health issues, the gravity of the accusations against him looms large. Friese pointed out that Holmberg has already spent nearly a year under house arrest and is awaiting his final sentencing at a Minnesota facility.

During the years, Holmberg held influential positions, including chairing the powerful Senate Appropriations Committee, which allowed him to oversee his own travel. In one instance, he brought a University of North Dakota student into a privileged setting during hockey games with expectations of sexual activity. The documents point to a history of exploitative behavior, suggesting a long-term abuse of the trust bestowed upon him by the public.

Tim Purdon, a former U.S. attorney, emphasized the need for accountability among those who turned a blind eye to Holmberg’s offenses. “This is someone who identified extremely vulnerable young men, groomed them, and eventually used them for sex,” he said. The case continues to raise questions about systemic failures surrounding the allegations against Holmberg.

Holmberg resigned from the legislature following damning reports exposing his communications regarding child sexual abuse material. His actions have ignited significant conversations regarding abuse of authority and the need for greater protective measures for vulnerable youth.