New judge assigned to Isadora Wengel murder case

Joshua Hite's defense attorneys filed a demand for a change of judge, leading to the replacement of Judge Constance Cleveland with Judge Steven E. McCullough.

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

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A new judge has been assigned to the murder case against Joshua Hite, who is charged with the disappearance and suspected death of 25-year-old Isadora Wengel. Hite's defense attorneys filed a demand for a change of judge, which was granted, leading to Judge Steven E. McCullough taking over the case from Judge Constance Cleveland. Hite is scheduled to appear in court on March 11 for a preliminary hearing, and the Fargo Police Department continues to investigate the case, focusing on locating a missing 27-gallon HDX storage tote.

Why it matters

The change of judge in a high-profile murder case can have significant implications, as it may impact the legal strategies, rulings, and overall trajectory of the proceedings. Additionally, the ongoing investigation and the police's focus on a specific piece of evidence suggest that authorities are working diligently to build a strong case against the suspect.

The details

According to the court order, Hite's defense attorneys filed a demand for a change of judge on Feb. 13, within 10 days of his arraignment, as allowed under North Dakota law. The order states that the demand was filed 'in good faith and not for the purpose of delay' and that Cleveland had not ruled on any matters in the case. Hite, 21, is charged with Class AA felony murder, tampering with physical evidence, and providing false information to law enforcement in connection with Wengel's disappearance and suspected death.

  • On Feb. 18, a court order was signed, assigning Judge Steven E. McCullough of the East Central Judicial District as the presiding judge in the case.
  • Hite is scheduled to appear in court on March 11 at 9 a.m. for a preliminary hearing.
  • On Feb. 23, the Fargo Police Department stated that it has no new updates in the murder and disappearance investigation, as investigators continue to await the opportunity to formally interview Hite.

The players

Joshua Hite

A 21-year-old man charged with Class AA felony murder, tampering with physical evidence, and providing false information to law enforcement in connection with the disappearance and suspected death of Isadora Wengel.

Judge Steven E. McCullough

The new presiding judge in the murder case against Joshua Hite, assigned after Hite's defense attorneys filed a demand for a change of judge.

Judge Constance Cleveland

The previous presiding judge in the murder case against Joshua Hite, who has been replaced by Judge Steven E. McCullough.

Isadora Wengel

A 25-year-old woman whose disappearance and suspected death led to the murder charges against Joshua Hite.

Dave Zibolski

The Fargo Police Chief, who stated that the department is dedicating full investigative resources to the case, with a primary focus on locating a missing 27-gallon HDX storage tote.

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What’s next

The judge in the case will preside over the preliminary hearing scheduled for March 11, where the court will determine if there is sufficient evidence to proceed with the trial against Joshua Hite.

The takeaway

The change of judge in this high-profile murder case highlights the importance of due process and the legal system's ability to respond to defense requests, even in sensitive cases. The ongoing investigation and the police's focus on a specific piece of evidence suggest that authorities are working diligently to build a strong case against the suspect, underscoring the complexity and thoroughness required in such investigations.