Ian Cramer pleads not guilty in crash that killed deputy

Ian Cramer, son of U.S. Senator Kevin Cramer, pleaded not guilty Wednesday to a homicide charge related to a December high-speed chase that resulted in the death of a Mercer County sheriff’s deputy.

Cramer entered the plea and waived his right to a preliminary hearing at the McLean County Courthouse.

The 43-year-old is accused of killing Deputy Paul Martin while on the run from police in Mercer County the night of Dec. 6.

At first, Cramer was charged with manslaughter, but the prosecution later elevated the charge to homicide while fleeing a peace officer. If convicted on the homicide charge, a class A felony, Cramer could face up to 20 years in prison.

Cramer is charged with eight other crimes related to the incident, including three felonies — all of which he also pleaded not guilty to on Wednesday.

The felony charges are fleeing a peace officer, preventing arrest and reckless endangerment. He also faces more minor charges related to the possession of illegal drugs and drug paraphernalia, as well as driving with a suspended license.

The criminal case is scheduled to go to trial on July 16.

Sen. Cramer, R-N.D., has said his son suffers from mental illnesses that lead him to experience symptoms including paranoia and hallucinations.

The police chase on Dec. 6 began when Cramer’s wife, Kris, drove Ian to the hospital out of concerns for his mental health.

After his mother exited the car, Ian Cramer took the vehicle and drove away, Sen. Cramer said in a December statement.

Court records indicate Ian Cramer reached speeds of over 100 mph while fleeing law enforcement.