FARGO, ND – Patrick Opdahl, 24, of Fargo, North Dakota, is facing serious federal time after a jury found him guilty of Possession of a Machinegun and Possession of an Unregistered Silencer. The verdict came April 11, 2024, following a three-day trial before U.S. District Court Chief Judge Peter Welte. Sentencing remains unscheduled, but the charges carry significant penalties.
The case unfolded February 1, 2023, when Fargo police responded to a domestic disturbance at Opdahl’s residence. According to court documents, Opdahl engaged in a heated argument with his parents, escalating to the point where he discharged a firearm into the ceiling. Thankfully, his parents escaped physical harm, but Opdahl refused to comply with officers, triggering a tense, hours-long standoff involving the Fargo Police Department and the Red River Valley Regional SWAT team. Negotiators eventually convinced Opdahl to surrender peacefully.
The ensuing investigation revealed a disturbing cache of “ghost guns” – privately made firearms with no serial numbers – including the illegal machinegun and silencer. These untraceable weapons are increasingly favored by criminals and those prohibited from owning firearms, making them a growing concern for law enforcement. The Department of Justice reported recovering over 25,785 ghost guns in domestic seizures in 2022, along with another 2,453 through international operations. This case highlights the dangers posed by these unregulated firearms.
“Illegal machinegun conversion devices are a threat to the public and to the safety of law enforcement officers in North Dakota,” stated United States Attorney Mac Schneider. “This is especially true when ‘ghost’ guns are involved. The United States Attorney’s Office will continue to prioritize the federal prosecution of those who possess illegal firearms and individuals who possess firearms illegally.” The message is clear: possessing such weapons will not be tolerated.
ATF Special Agent in Charge Travis Riddle echoed Schneider’s sentiments, adding, “Firearms violence should not be the solution we use to solve disagreements.” He praised the collaborative effort between the Fargo Police Department and the U.S. Attorney’s Office in securing the conviction. “We are grateful for the great partnership…successfully prosecuting this case. Mr. Opdahl is rightfully going to be held accountable for his poor decisions.”
The investigation was a joint effort between the Fargo Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives (ATF). Assistant U.S. Attorney Richard Lee and Trial Attorney Katherine Raut handled the prosecution. As Opdahl awaits sentencing, this case serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of illegal gun possession and the dedication of federal agencies to combating firearms-related crime in North Dakota and beyond. The Grimy Times will continue to follow this case and report on any sentencing developments.
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Key Facts
- State: North Dakota
- Agency: DOJ USAO
- Category: Weapons
- Source: Official Source ↗
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