STANTON, N.D. (trfnews.i234.me) – Ian Matthew Cramer, the 43-year-old son of U.S. Senator Kevin Cramer, is set to stand trial later this month in connection to a fatal high-speed chase that resulted in the death of Mercer County Deputy Paul Martin. Cramer, who faces a slew of felony charges, may be negotiating a plea deal, according to recent court discussions.
The charges stem from a tragic incident on December 6, 2023, when Cramer allegedly fled law enforcement in a stolen 2017 Chevrolet Tahoe, triggering a pursuit that ended with the death of the 53-year-old deputy. Cramer has been charged with homicide while fleeing, as well as multiple felonies including reckless endangerment, drug possession, and fleeing officers.
The harrowing events unfolded after Cramer’s mother, Kris, brought him to Sanford Hospital in Bismarck due to concerns over his mental health. While she spoke with hospital staff, Cramer allegedly stole her vehicle and fled the scene, prompting law enforcement to intervene.
The pursuit, which reached speeds of over 100 mph, came to a deadly end when Cramer struck Martin’s patrol vehicle as the deputy attempted to deploy a tire deflation device on Highway 200. Martin was thrown into a ditch from the impact and tragically died at the scene.
Now, Cramer faces not only charges for the deputy’s death but also for his actions at the hospital, with another trial scheduled for November. Despite pleading not guilty to all charges, a plea deal may be in the works, according to Mercer County State’s Attorney Todd Schwarz. Discussions with the family of the fallen deputy are ongoing, and any potential agreement will likely hinge on their input.
As the trial looms, questions about Cramer’s mental health evaluation remain. His attorney, Kevin McCabe, expressed concern over delays in receiving a critical criminal responsibility assessment, which could play a pivotal role in the defense. North Dakota law allows for a lack of criminal responsibility if the defendant is found to have been incapable of understanding the consequences of their actions due to a mental condition.
Judge Bobbi Weiler has emphasized the need for the trial to proceed without unnecessary delays, noting that Cramer has already spent nearly a year behind bars. The jury selection process is underway, with over 100 potential jurors being screened to ensure an impartial trial.
As the son of a prominent U.S. senator, Cramer’s case has drawn significant public attention. His father, Kevin Cramer, has represented North Dakota in the Senate since 2019, though he has remained largely silent on his son’s legal battles.
The trial is slated to begin on September 24, with both sides preparing for what could be a pivotal moment in North Dakota’s legal history. Whether the case will end with a plea deal or proceed to a full trial remains to be seen.