FARGO, N.D. (trfnews.i234.me) – Former Cass County Sheriff’s Deputy, Darin Viken, has been charged with six counts of disorderly conduct-harassment, all classified as Class B misdemeanors. These charges are linked to incidents that occurred in March 2023 and July 2024 and were officially filed in Cass County Court on December 30, 2024.
The alleged victims in these cases are women; however, the specific nature of the harassing conduct has not been detailed in the available court documents.
In July 2024, the Cass County Sheriff’s Office reported that an investigation was underway following Viken’s termination from his role as the 24/7 Program Coordinator. Viken, a 19-year veteran of the sheriff’s office, was placed on administrative leave on July 17 and officially terminated on July 22.
Sheriff Jesse Jahner stated that the office would coordinate any further release of information with the North Dakota Bureau of Criminal Investigation.
Court records also indicate that six orders prohibiting contact have been filed in relation to these charges.
The 24/7 Sobriety Program, which Viken coordinated, requires individuals to submit to alcohol or drug testing as a condition of bail, sentence, or probation in cases involving substance-related offenses, domestic abuse, or child abuse/neglect.
The investigation into Viken’s conduct is being handled by the North Dakota Bureau of Criminal Investigation. Sheriff Jahner has expressed that, due to the nature of the allegations, no further information will be released at this time to maintain the integrity of the investigation.
Participants of the 24/7 Program who wish to report concerning interactions during their involvement are encouraged to contact the Sheriff’s Office’s Professional Standards and Accountability Division at 701-241-5807.
As this is an ongoing investigation, further details will be provided as they become available.
I’m Chris Harper, reporting for trfnews.i234.me