Patrick Opdahl, Possession of a Machinegun and Possession of an Unregistered Silencer, North Dakota 2024

FARGO, ND – A reckless outburst and a cache of illegal weaponry have landed 24-year-old Patrick Opdahl in federal court. After a tense standoff with law enforcement, Opdahl was convicted on April 11, 2024, of Possession of a Machinegun and Possession of an Unregistered Silencer following a three-day jury trial before U.S. District Court Chief Judge Peter Welte. Sentencing is pending.

The trouble began February 1, 2023, when Fargo Police responded to a domestic disturbance at a residence shared by Opdahl and his parents. According to authorities, Opdahl fired a weapon into the ceiling during an argument, prompting his parents to flee. Opdahl then refused to surrender, triggering a several-hour standoff with the Fargo Police Department and the Red River Valley Regional SWAT team. Negotiators eventually convinced Opdahl to give himself up peacefully.

A subsequent investigation revealed a disturbing arsenal – several privately made firearms, commonly known as “ghost guns.” Among these were a fully automatic machinegun and an unregistered silencer. These untraceable weapons are particularly favored by individuals prohibited from owning firearms, raising serious concerns about public safety. The Department of Justice reported recovering over 25,000 ghost guns in domestic seizures in 2022 alone, along with another 2,453 through international operations.

“Illegal machinegun conversion devices are a threat to the public and to the safety of law enforcement officers in North Dakota,” stated U.S. 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 case highlights a growing trend of individuals assembling untraceable firearms, circumventing background checks and other regulations.

ATF Special Agent in Charge Travis Riddle of the St. Paul Field Division echoed Schneider’s sentiment. “Firearms violence should not be the solution we use to solve disagreements,” Riddle said. “We are grateful for the great partnership with Fargo Police Department and for the work of the U.S. Attorney’s Office, successfully prosecuting this case. Mr. Opdahl is rightfully going to be held accountable for his poor decisions.”

The investigation was a collaborative effort between the Fargo Police Department and the ATF, with the prosecution handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Richard Lee and Trial Attorney Katherine Raut. While the exact length of Opdahl’s sentence remains to be determined, the conviction sends a clear message: possessing illegal weapons, especially dangerous devices like machineguns and silencers, will not be tolerated. The Grimy Times will continue to follow this case and report on the sentencing when it is scheduled.

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