Crookston, MN (trfnews.i234.me) In a significant development in Polk County, Dale William Sorenson, 61, of Crookston, has agreed to plead guilty to a lesser charge of fourth-degree criminal sexual conduct. This decision comes after he was initially charged in September 2023 with two felonies—second-degree criminal sexual conduct and threats of violence—as well as a gross misdemeanor for fifth-degree assault. Sorenson’s sentencing is scheduled for May 8, 2025.
Incident Details
On September 25, 2023, Crookston police responded to a residence in the early hours, where they found a partially undressed woman who was bleeding. The woman reported that she and Sorenson had been at a friend’s house earlier that evening. When she later rested on a recliner, Sorenson allegedly began kissing her and threatened to kill her husband when she refused further engagement. The woman, appearing heavily intoxicated, resisted, resulting in a fall that caused a head injury and subsequent bleeding.
Legal Proceedings
Sorenson pleaded not guilty to the initial charges in February 2024. Subsequently, on March 21, 2025, an amended criminal complaint added a felony charge of fourth-degree criminal sexual conduct, alleging that Sorenson engaged in sexual contact with the woman by using force, an offense punishable by up to 10 years in prison.
Plea Agreement
Following the amended charges, Sorenson filed a petition to plead guilty to the fourth-degree criminal sexual conduct charge. He entered an Alford plea, maintaining his innocence but acknowledging that the evidence likely would lead to a conviction. In exchange for this plea, Polk County Attorney Greg Widseth agreed to dismiss the remaining three counts and waive the right to seek an aggravated sentence. Sorenson will be sentenced based on his criminal history score.
Sentencing Details
A sentencing hearing for Sorenson is scheduled for 9 a.m. on May 8, 2025. The court will determine his sentence based on the plea agreement and his criminal history.
I’m Chris Harper, and I’m reporting for TRF News.