UPDATE: Federal prosecutor Jennifer Puhl has been named The Forum’s 2025 Area Person of the Year for her groundbreaking work in bringing former North Dakota state senator Ray Holmberg to justice in a chilling international child sex abuse case. Puhl emphasizes that the true heroes are the victims who bravely came forward, making the indictment possible.
Puhl, who has served over two decades at the U.S. Attorney’s Office, stated, “The credit needs to go to the victims because they’re the ones that have the strength and the courage to come forward.” Her relentless pursuit of justice has made significant waves in the community, prompting The Forum to recognize her impact over the past year.
The case against Holmberg, a powerful figure in North Dakota politics, unraveled after years of investigation. He was indicted in October 2023 for traveling internationally with the intent to engage in child sex abuse, marking a historic charge in North Dakota’s federal court history. Puhl’s efforts culminated in a March 2025 sentencing where Holmberg received a 10-year federal prison sentence.
Puhl, who was appointed interim U.S. Attorney in 2022, has a reputation for her integrity and tenacity. Nick Chase, North Dakota’s current U.S. Attorney, praised her dedication, stating, “It wouldn’t have proceeded without a determined and dogged person working for years on it like Puhl did.”
The complexity of the Holmberg case was heightened by its international dimensions, requiring approvals from both the U.S. State and Justice Departments for investigators to gather evidence in Prague. Puhl noted, “It was like taking on Goliath,” emphasizing the courage of the victims who faced a powerful adversary.
As a coordinator for several initiatives, including Project Safe Childhood, Puhl has been instrumental in addressing the rising tide of internet-related child sex abuse cases. The number of cyber tips regarding these crimes in North Dakota is projected to jump from approximately 100 in 2012 to over 2,300 by the end of this year, reflecting the growing complexity of these offenses.
Holmberg’s exploitation of vulnerable youth was a key aspect of the case, with victims describing his manipulative tactics. Puhl expressed her commitment to fighting against such predatory behavior, stating, “He targeted the young, broken, and weak for decades.”
The community’s recognition of Puhl’s efforts comes amidst a backdrop of increasing awareness and urgency surrounding child exploitation cases. Her work has not only transformed the legal landscape but also ignited crucial conversations about accountability and support for victims.
In a field often marked by challenges and complexities, Puhl remains focused on her mission. “I still have to pinch myself,” she remarked, reflecting on her rewarding career. Her recognition as The Forum’s 2025 Area Person of the Year is not just an accolade but a testament to her unwavering commitment to justice.
As the fight against child exploitation continues, all eyes are on Puhl and her dedicated team, as they work tirelessly to protect the most vulnerable members of society. The implications of her work reach far beyond the courtroom, inspiring a community to stand against abuse and advocate for change.
The urgency of these issues cannot be overstated. With Puhl leading the charge, North Dakota is making strides towards a future where justice prevails for all victims.
