Ex-Lawmaker to Plead Guilty to Sex Crime

FARGO, N.D. (AP) — A former influential North Dakota lawmaker, Holmberg, is set to plead guilty in federal court to charges related to traveling to Europe with the intent to engage in sexual activities with minors. The plea agreement requires Holmberg to register as a sex offender, highlighting the severity of the allegations against him. Between June 2011 and November 2016, he reportedly made multiple trips from Grand Forks to Prague, Czech Republic, with the purpose of engaging in commercial sex with individuals under 18. Holmberg has faced numerous restrictions since the allegations surfaced, including travel limitations, location monitoring, and the surrender of his passport. Despite these conditions, he has been accused of repeatedly accessing the Internet for unauthorized purposes and failing to comply with monitoring requirements. In May, he tested positive for alcohol use, leading to further restrictions on his access to electronic devices. U.S. Pretrial Services Officer Christine Argall indicated that Holmberg is not considered a suitable candidate for self-surrender due to the serious nature of his alleged violations. Former U.S. Attorney Tim Purdon emphasized the gravity of the situation, noting that the reported violations are particularly concerning given the nature of the charges. Holmberg, who previously chaired the Senate Appropriations Committee, had significant influence over budgetary decisions, including his own travel. Records reveal that he undertook numerous trips domestically and internationally since 1999, raising questions about his conduct during his tenure in office.