Grand Forks Man Appeals Case Involving Mother, Police Officer's Death to State Supreme Court

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A Grand Forks man convicted of killing a police officer and his own mother, while injuring two other law enforcement officers, has appealed his case to the North Dakota Supreme Court. Salamah Pendleton was sentenced in 2021 to life in prison without parole for the killings and injuries, and is now seeking review of the Grand Forks County District Court's decision to grant a summary judgment in the case.

Why it matters

This case drew significant attention in the Grand Forks community due to the tragic loss of life and the serious injuries sustained by law enforcement officers. Pendleton's appeal to the state's highest court could potentially overturn or uphold his conviction, raising questions about public safety and the judicial process.

The details

In October 2021, Pendleton was sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole for killing his mother, Lola Moore, and Grand Forks Police officer Cody Holte. He was also convicted of injuring Corporal Patrick Torok and Corporal Ron Nord of the Grand Forks County Sheriff's Office. Pendleton has now filed an appeal with the North Dakota Supreme Court, asking the court to consider whether the Grand Forks County District Court erred in granting a summary judgment in the case.

• Pendleton was sentenced in October 2021.
• Pendleton filed an appeal to the North Dakota Supreme Court earlier this week.

What’s next

The North Dakota Supreme Court will review Pendleton's appeal and determine whether to uphold or overturn the Grand Forks County District Court's decision.