Fargo Man Found Guilty of Packing a Machinegun, Unregistered Silencer

FARGO – A federal jury delivered a guilty verdict against Patrick Opdahl, 24, of Fargo, North Dakota, for Possession of a Machinegun and Possession of an Unregistered Silencer. The conviction was handed down on April 11, 2024, following a three-day trial in U.S. District Court Chief Judge Peter Welte’s courtroom.

The charges stem from a February 1, 2023, incident where law enforcement was called to Opdahl’s residence, which he shared with his parents. During an argument, Opdahl pulled out a firearm and fired it into the ceiling, prompting a standoff with Fargo Police Department officers and the Red River Valley Regional SWAT team. After several hours of negotiation, Opdahl surrendered peacefully. An investigation revealed he possessed several ghost guns, including a machinegun and unregistered silencer.

“Illegal machinegun conversion devices are a threat to the public and to the safety of law enforcement officers in North Dakota,” U.S. Attorney Mac Schneider said. “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.”

Privately made firearms, often referred to as “ghost guns,” are particularly attractive to prohibited individuals due to their untraceable nature. In 2022, the Department of Justice recovered 25,785 ghost guns in domestic seizures and 2,453 through international operations.

Special Agent in Charge Travis Riddle of the ATF St. Paul Field Division emphasized the dangers of firearms violence, stating, “Firearms violence should not be the solution we use to solve disagreements.” Riddle also praised the partnership with the Fargo Police Department and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for their work in successfully prosecuting the case.

The case was investigated by the Fargo Police Department and ATF, with prosecution led by Assistant U.S. Attorney Richard Lee and Trial Attorney Katherine Raut. Opdahl’s sentencing has not yet been scheduled.

The U.S. Attorney’s Office will continue to prioritize the prosecution of individuals who possess illegal firearms, ensuring public safety and holding accountable those who put lives at risk.

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