Ramsey County (trfnews.i234.me) – A Devils Lake man is facing a felony theft charge after police say he was caught stealing liquor earlier this month.
According to court documents, Erik Sodren was seen on August 13th taking a bottle of liquor from the Liquor Locker in Devils Lake. Officers later arrested him at his apartment.
This case marks Sodren’s fourth shoplifting offense in four years. Because of his history, the new charge has been elevated to felony theft of property under North Dakota law.
Repeat theft offenses in the state can be charged as felonies, even when the stolen items have relatively low value. Prosecutors say the law is designed to deter chronic offenders and impose stiffer penalties on those who repeatedly violate theft statutes.
Court filings show Sodren now faces the possibility of prison time if convicted. His case will proceed through Ramsey County District Court, where hearings will be scheduled in the coming weeks.
Local authorities note that theft cases involving repeat offenders continue to be a challenge for businesses in the Devils Lake area. Shoplifting not only creates financial loss for stores but also leads to increased security costs and legal proceedings.
Sodren remains in custody while awaiting trial. Officials say additional details may be released as the case develops.
For more information on North Dakota theft laws, visit the North Dakota Legislative Branch statutes.
I’m Chris Harper reporting for TRF News.
