Belcourt Man Sentenced to 30 Years for Sexually Abusing Minor

A 41-year-old man from Belcourt, North Dakota, has been sentenced to 30 years in federal prison for the heinous crime of abusive sexual contact with a minor. Cole Jeanotte, a former resident of Belcourt, appeared in federal court on April 17, 2025, before District Court Judge Peter Welte and was handed down the lengthy sentence.

According to court documents, the victim, a minor at the time, disclosed to her mother in May 2020 that Jeanotte had sexually abused her. The abuse began in 2012 and continued until 2013, when the victim was approximately 7 years old. Following the incidents, Jeanotte threatened to hurt the victim’s mother if she told anyone about the abuse.

The United States Attorney’s Office is committed to prosecuting those who sexually abuse children, regardless of when the disclosure is made, said Acting United States Attorney Jennifer Klemetsrud Puhl. This sentence reflects the egregious nature of Jeanotte’s conduct, and it will ensure the protection of other children.

Jeanotte committed a heinous crime against a defenseless child, and today’s sentence reflects the gravity of that offense, said Special Agent in Charge Alvin M. Winston Sr. of the FBI Minneapolis. Protecting the most vulnerable members of our society — especially children — is one of the FBI’s highest priorities.

The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office in the District of North Dakota. Jeanotte will also serve 10 years of supervised release following his prison sentence and will have to pay $100 in special assessment fees.

This case serves as a reminder that child predators will be held accountable for their crimes and that victims will receive justice. The Grimy Times will continue to follow this case and provide updates as more information becomes available.

The sentence handed down to Jeanotte is a significant blow to those who would seek to harm innocent children. It is a testament to the hard work and dedication of law enforcement and prosecutors who work tirelessly to bring predators to justice.

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