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U.S. Sen. Kevin Cramer’s Son Sentenced to 28 Years in Prison for Fatal Crash
The son of U.S. Sen. Kevin Cramer, R-N.D., has been sentenced to 28 years in prison for killing a sheriff’s deputy in a crash while fleeing law enforcement. Ian Cramer, 43, was convicted of killing 53-year-old Mercer County Sheriff’s Deputy Paul Martin, who was hit head-on by Cramer’s vehicle on December 6, 2023.
State District Judge Bobbi Weiler handed down the sentence, which includes 38 years with 10 years suspended, three years of probation, and credit for time served. However, Weiler noted that Cramer may not serve the entire sentence, citing that it is not a mandatory minimum, and he may be released from prison through parole.
Cramer was charged with homicide while fleeing a police officer, fleeing a police officer, preventing arrest, reckless endangerment, and other charges. He initially pleaded not guilty, but changed his plea to guilty in September.
Prosecutors said Cramer was under the influence of methamphetamine and bath salts during the incident, and was experiencing the long-term effects of using drugs to induce a mentally ill state. His mother, Kris, apologized in court, saying she feels responsible for the incident. Sen. Cramer has spoken publicly about his son’s struggles with serious mental health issues, including paranoia and hallucinations. The senator has also stated that his son is aware that his choices led to the fatal crash.
