WALSH COUNTY (trfnews.i234.me) – A Hoople man is facing a serious felony charge after investigators reported finding illegal images on his phone. Court records identify the suspect as Ryan Paul Nilson.
According to the criminal complaint, on August 26, officers executed a search warrant on Nilson’s person and phone. Investigators say they discovered 24 images of nude female children, estimated to be between 8 and 15 years old.
Authorities allege the images qualify as prohibited material under state law. Nilson has now been charged with possession of certain materials prohibited, a class B felony in North Dakota. Because the case involves more than 20 images, the severity of the charge increases.
Under North Dakota law, a class B felony carries a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison and up to a $20,000 fine. Sentencing guidelines will depend on the outcome of the court proceedings and any prior record.
The case has been filed in Walsh County District Court. Additional details, including bond information and hearing dates, are expected to be released soon. Updates will be available on the North Dakota Courts website.
Officials stress that the investigation remains active. Community members are encouraged to report suspicious online activity to law enforcement or through the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children.
TRF News will continue to follow this case as new information emerges from court filings and law enforcement updates.
I’m Chris Harper reporting for TRF News.
