GRAND FORKS, ND (trfnews.i234.me) – Joshua Jon Temple, 41, of Grand Forks, has requested a change of venue for his criminal case involving the abuse of his late wife, Whitney Temple, who was battling cancer. Temple faces charges including Class B felony endangering an eligible adult, Class C felony terrorizing, Class C felony domestic violence causing serious bodily injury, and Class A misdemeanor domestic violence causing substantial bodily injury. These charges were filed in April, and Whitney Temple passed away the following month.
Whitney Temple, a family practice doctor at Sanford Health’s Grand Forks clinic, was honored posthumously by her colleagues in a “last rounds” ritual. Joshua Temple has pleaded not guilty to the charges.
The defense argues that significant media attention and the Temples’ prominence in the community warrant moving the trial out of Grand Forks County to ensure a fair trial. The motion suggests relocating to Ward County, Burleigh County, or another county outside the influence of the media.
Temple’s attorney, Patrick Rosenquist, claims that media coverage has been inflammatory and prejudicial. The defense memorandum highlights headlines and social media comments that could bias potential jurors, including calls for the death penalty and personal threats against Temple.
The state, represented by Sarah Gereszek, opposes the motion, arguing there is no proof that media coverage will prevent a fair trial. Judge Kristi Venhuizen will review the submitted documents and decide without a hearing.