UPDATE: Federal prosecutor Jennifer Puhl has been named The Forum’s 2025 Area Person of the Year for her pivotal role in bringing former North Dakota state senator Ray Holmberg to justice in a groundbreaking international child sex abuse case. Puhl emphasized that the true heroes are the victims who bravely came forward, enabling her to secure Holmberg’s indictment and subsequent sentencing to 10 years in federal prison.
In a powerful statement, Puhl noted, “The credit needs to go to the victims because they’re the ones that have the strength and the courage to come forward.” Her determination and dedication over more than two decades as a federal prosecutor have sparked critical changes in the community and highlighted the urgent issue of child exploitation.
Holmberg, a prominent figure in North Dakota politics from 1977 to 2022, was indicted following a lengthy investigation into his sexual abuse of minors abroad. The investigation revealed that he traveled to Prague with intentions to exploit children, marking a significant advancement in the prosecution of international child sex trafficking cases in North Dakota.
The complexity of this case required collaboration with both the U.S. State and Justice Departments to gather evidence overseas. Puhl stated, “It was like taking on Goliath,” reflecting on the challenges faced while pursuing justice against a figure with such considerable influence.
Puhl’s career began humbly, stemming from a family of plumbers, but she quickly realized her passion for law after clerking for North Dakota Supreme Court Justice Mary Muehlen Maring. After being hired by former U.S. Attorney Drew Wrigley in 2002, she dedicated herself to prosecuting child sex abuse cases, particularly those involving internet-related offenses.
“Jennifer is the antithesis of someone seeking attention,” Wrigley praised. “She is tenacious and studious about the law.” Her efforts have led to a surge in prosecutions related to internet child exploitation, with projections indicating North Dakota will receive 2,300 cyber tips regarding abuse material by year-end.
The case against Holmberg was especially harrowing, involving testimonies from victims who described how he groomed and exploited vulnerable youth over decades. Puhl highlighted the importance of believing victims, stating, “They were easy for a powerful man like Holmberg to take advantage of.”
In October 2023, after years of investigation, Puhl secured an indictment against Holmberg for his plans to sexually abuse children internationally. His guilty plea marked a historic moment in North Dakota’s legal history, as it was the first federal charge of its kind in the state.
While Holmberg’s prison sentence is a significant victory, Puhl remains focused on the broader fight against child exploitation. “We get to do really interesting and rewarding work,” she shared, expressing gratitude for her dedicated team and partnerships with law enforcement agencies, which she credits as vital to their success.
As the legal landscape continues to evolve, Puhl’s recognition as Area Person of the Year underscores the critical impact of dedicated public servants in the fight against child abuse. The community is encouraged to support ongoing efforts to protect the vulnerable and ensure justice prevails.
Puhl’s commitment to her role portrays a powerful message that justice is possible, even against the most daunting adversaries. The public is reminded of the importance of vigilance and advocacy for those who may not be able to speak for themselves.
Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story as efforts to combat child exploitation continue to gain momentum in North Dakota and beyond.
