CASS COUNTY (trfnews.i234.me) — The North Dakota Supreme Court has unanimously rejected Spencer Moen’s appeal for a new trial, affirming his conviction and life sentence for the 2023 murder of his wife, Sonja Moen.
In its opinion, the high court upheld the Cass County District Court’s judgment, finding no violation of Moen’s constitutional right to confront witnesses. Moen had argued that the district court failed to meet statutory requirements for allowing remote testimony by child witnesses during his trial.
Moen, of West Fargo, was sentenced in December 2024 to life in prison without the possibility of parole after being found guilty of the brutal beating death of his wife, Sonja, in August 2023. Prosecutors said Moen left Sonja to die in their home’s bathtub after a violent assault.
During sentencing, members of Sonja’s family delivered emotional statements describing the deep pain and lasting impact her death has had on them and the couple’s three children. The courtroom was filled with tears as family members recalled her kindness and the void left behind.
Moen’s attorney had asked the court for a sentence of 20 years, citing mitigating factors, but Cass County District Judge Nicholas Chase said Moen had multiple chances to stop the attack or call for help, yet chose not to.
The Supreme Court’s decision means Moen will continue serving his life sentence. The ruling reinforces the trial court’s handling of testimony procedures and the fairness of the original conviction.
For the full Supreme Court opinion, visit the North Dakota Supreme Court Opinions page.
I’m Chris Harper reporting for TRF News.
Spencer Moen