Peace Garden News

A Rolla, North Dakota man has been sentenced to over four years in federal prison for sexual abuse of a minor. Jace Fox, aged 25, appeared in the United States District Court and was sentenced by Chief Judge Peter Welte. His sentence includes a 51-month prison term followed by 20 years of supervised release. Fox is also required to pay a $100 special assessment fee.

The case against Fox began when Jane Doe, at the time a 13-year-old victim, disclosed the abuse during a forensic interview in February 2022. Fox was 20 years old at the time of the alleged abuse. During the investigation, other minors came forward with similar accusations against Fox.

Fox was interviewed by the FBI in January 2023 and initially claimed he did not know Jane Doe. Later, he admitted to knowing her but still denied the allegations of sexual abuse. Despite his denial, Fox pled guilty to the charge relating to Jane Doe on November 19, 2024.

"This was a despicable crime committed against one of the most vulnerable members of our community," stated Special Agent in Charge Alvin M. Winston Sr. of FBI Minneapolis. "The FBI and our partners are fully committed to protecting children from abuse and ensuring those who exploit or harm them face justice swiftly."

The investigation was carried out by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the prosecution was handled by the United States Attorney’s Office, District of North Dakota.