Cramer faces homicide charge in death of Mercer County deputy

(Stanton, ND) — Ian Cramer, who has been charged in the death of Mercer County Sheriff’s Deputy Paul Martin on December 6, is now facing more serious charges.

Court documents filed Thursday in Mercer County District Court show the 42-year-old is now facing a charge of homicide while fleeing a peace officer, which is a Class A Felony. Initially, Cramer was charged with manslaughter, which is a Class B Felony in North Dakota. If convicted, Cramer could face up to 20 years in prison.

The charging documents state that Cramer, during a high speed pursuit, “refused to halt his vehicle and collided with Deputy Paul Martin’s patrol vehicle, causing the death of Paul Martin.”

Additionally, Cramer is charged with three Class C felonies — Fleeing a Police Officer - Vehicle - Fleeing from Felony; Preventing Arrest; and Reckless Endangerment. He’s also charged with four misdemeanors — possession of a controlled substance, meth; possesssion of a controlled substance, cocaine; unlawful possession of drug paraphernalia; and driving under suspension. A ninth charge is an infraction charge — possession of marijuana.

Cramer will appear for an initial appearance on the upgraded charge on Monday at 2 p.m.