FARGO – Ray Holmberg, a former North Dakota state senator, was sentenced to 10 years in federal prison on March 26, 2025, after pleading guilty to traveling abroad to engage in illicit sexual conduct with minors. The 81-year-old, who had a long and influential career in state politics, faced a judge who described his actions as "egregious and despicable," reflecting the severity of his crimes.
Holmberg, who served in the North Dakota Senate for 45 years, was found guilty of traveling to Prague, Czech Republic, 14 times between 2011 and 2021 to pay for sex with underage boys. U.S. District Judge Daniel Hovland emphasized that Holmberg's conduct was not an isolated incident, stating, "This is not a victimless crime; it displays a pattern of very vile, sickening criminal behavior." His sentencing marks a significant moment in a case that has drawn attention due to Holmberg's previous political stature and the nature of his offenses.
In court, Holmberg appeared in an orange prison jumpsuit, shackled at the hands and feet, a stark contrast to the powerful figure he once was in Bismarck. During the hearing, the judge expressed disbelief at Holmberg's lack of remorse, particularly as Holmberg attempted to downplay his actions as mere bragging or locker room talk. When questioned about messages he sent regarding his sexual exploits, Holmberg insisted they were exaggerated statements intended to impress friends. Hovland was not convinced, replying, "Why would you brag about having sex with a 12-year-old?" to which Holmberg responded, "Because I'm trying to impress people. The bottom line is I talk too much. Way too much."
Holmberg's history of exploiting vulnerable young men was highlighted during the hearing, with two witnesses providing emotional testimony about their experiences with him. One man recounted how Holmberg, while serving as a school counselor, coerced him into making sexual videos in the 1990s. Another witness, a former University of North Dakota student, described how Holmberg used his political influence to groom him for sexual encounters. "I was an emotionally broken young man who was exploited by my former high school counselor for his sexual gratification," the former student stated, emphasizing the long-lasting impact of Holmberg's actions.
Despite the overwhelming evidence against him, Holmberg's defense attorney, Mark Friese, argued that the prosecution had not proven that Holmberg had assaulted any minors and urged the judge to consider Holmberg's age and health when deciding on a sentence. Friese claimed Holmberg's lack of a prior criminal record should weigh in favor of a lighter sentence. However, Hovland ultimately decided that the gravity of Holmberg's offenses warranted a sentence beyond the federal guidelines, which suggested a range of 37 to 46 months.
Acting U.S. Attorney Jennifer Klemetsrud Puhl remarked that if prosecutors had been able to identify victims in Prague, they would have sought an even longer sentence. She emphasized that Holmberg's actions had devastating consequences for the vulnerable boys he targeted, many of whom were homeless and exploited due to their circumstances. "This was a crime that was an assault on the dignity of many young boys in Prague," Puhl stated.
Holmberg's predatory behavior extended beyond his international travels. Investigators revealed that he had posed as a teenage boy in internet chatrooms, convincing a 16-year-old Canadian to send him nude photos. Tragically, that boy later died by suicide in 2021. Furthermore, students at the University of North Dakota alleged that Holmberg would invite them to hockey games and expect sexual favors in return.
In a striking revelation, it was disclosed that at least one of Holmberg's trips to Prague was funded by taxpayer money. Prosecutors described his behavior as a long-standing pattern of corruption, exploiting his political power for personal gratification. According to court documents, Holmberg communicated with others about his sexual interests, stating, "The age of consent in Czech is 15," and shared explicit images of boys he referred to as "his twink," indicating a disturbing level of premeditation in his actions.
As Holmberg awaits the outcome of potential appeals, he will be required to register as a sex offender and follow strict conditions upon his release, including no contact with anyone under 18 without prior approval from a probation officer. Judge Hovland ordered him to participate in a sex offender treatment program and prohibited him from visiting places frequented by children, such as playgrounds and schools.
Holmberg's case has raised significant concerns about the exploitation of minors and the responsibilities of those in positions of power. As the community grapples with the fallout from his actions, many are calling for greater accountability and protective measures for vulnerable youth.
This case serves as a stark reminder of the potential for abuse of power and the importance of safeguarding the well-being of minors. The legal proceedings surrounding Holmberg's actions will continue to unfold, but the impact of his crimes will resonate within the community for years to come.
