(Fargo, ND) — Senator Kevin Cramer is commenting to the media for the first time regarding the charges his son Ian is facing in connection to the death of Mercer County Sheriff’s Deputy Paul Martin.
Martin died December 6th, after his patrol car was struck by a stolen SUV.
Investigators say the SUV was being driven by Cramer’s son.
The senator said he and his wife regularly visit Ian in jail while he awaits trial.
“God’s purpose in his (Ian’s) life doesn’t end because he is in jail, that in fact his (God’s) purpose in Ian’s life might be in jail. For me, it’s really important that Ian feels valued, that he understands that he is a child of God,” said Cramer.
Cramer said that at least for now his son is better off in jail, where he has access to mental health resources and does not have access to illicit drugs.
The senator also said that he frequently prays for Deputy Martin’s family.
“I haven’t talked a lot about Deputy Martin, but he is a hero in many respects. As tragic as it was, and as unnecessary as it was for him to lose his life, in the act of stopping Ian, he probably saved my son’s life. That is kind of an overwhelming thought,” said Cramer.
Cramer made the comments while appearing on Mid Day on WDAY Radio.
