Detroit Lakes, MN (trfnews.i234.me)—A Detroit Lakes man has been sentenced in Becker County District Court for felony domestic assault by strangulation following an incident that occurred on July 30, 2024.
Incident Details
- Suspect: Donald Conrad Kramer, 44
- Victim: Kramer’s nephew
- Location: Detroit Lakes, Minnesota
- Charge: Felony domestic assault by strangulation
- Sentence: 67 days in jail (already served) + 3 years of supervised probation
The Assault
According to court records, Becker County deputies responded to a domestic violence call at a home in Detroit Lakes. Upon arrival, they discovered that Kramer had grabbed his nephew by the throat, squeezed to the point of lightheadedness, and restricted his breathing.
The altercation started after Kramer, who had been asleep at the house of a hospitalized relative, refused to help clean.
- The victim called Kramer a “b—-”, prompting Kramer to threaten violence.
- The victim repeated the insult, at which point Kramer threw a punch but missed, striking a female relative instead.
- Kramer then grabbed his nephew’s throat, choking him before two women intervened and called 911.
Criminal History & Sentencing
Kramer had previous convictions for domestic assault in 2018 and had a pending domestic assault case against another individual at the time of this latest charge.
On Nov. 26, 2024, Judge Gretchen Thilmony issued a stayed imposition of sentence, meaning if Kramer successfully completes probation, the felony charge will be reduced to a misdemeanor.
Court-Ordered Requirements
- Three years of supervised probation
- No use of drugs or alcohol
- Completion of domestic abuse counseling/treatment
- Cognitive skills training
- Comprehensive diagnostic assessment & aftercare
What’s Next?
Kramer’s probation will be closely monitored, and any violations could result in harsher penalties. The case highlights the ongoing battle against domestic violence in Becker County and the importance of legal intervention.
I’m Chris Harper, reporting for trfnews.i234.me