Senator’s Son Sentenced to 28 Years for Deputy’s Death After High-Speed Chase

Ian Cramer, son of North Dakota Senator Kevin Cramer, received the sentence following a meth-fueled chase that led to the death of Deputy Paul Martin in December 2023.

Ian Cramer, 43, pleaded guilty to multiple charges, including homicide while fleeing a peace officer, reckless endangerment, and drug-related offenses.
The incident began when Cramer fled from a hospital after stealing his mother’s car, leading to a 70-mile high-speed chase with speeds exceeding 100 mph.
Mercer County Sheriff’s Deputy Paul Martin was killed when Cramer’s vehicle struck Martin’s patrol car, propelling him approximately 100 feet while deploying a tire deflation device.
Cramer admitted to using methamphetamine and bath salts during the incident and has a history of severe mental health struggles, according to his family.
The court sentenced Cramer to 38 years with 10 years suspended, three years of probation, and recommendations for addiction and mental health treatment.