Arrest Details and Allegations

In a shocking turn of events, Cory Pedersen, the Director of North Dakota's Child and Family Services, was arrested on Tuesday for allegedly breaching a domestic violence protection order. Reports indicate that Pedersen was seen near the workplace of the woman protected by the order, which prohibits him from being within 100 feet of her at any time or location.

Incident Report

The situation unfolded when the woman, who works at the state Capitol, spotted Pedersen's vehicle nearby and subsequently contacted law enforcement. According to an affidavit, Pedersen's key card records confirmed his presence in the Capitol building. After being confronted by Highway Patrol officers, he purportedly admitted to being on the Capitol property.

Charges and Legal Proceedings

Pedersen, aged 51, faces a misdemeanor charge that could lead to a maximum sentence of nearly a year in jail and fines reaching $3,000. Despite the allegations, he pleaded not guilty to the charges during a court appearance on Wednesday. His defense attorney, Chad McCabe, described the incident as “simply a misunderstanding,” asserting that both Pedersen and the woman work in close proximity within the Capitol complex.

Nature of the Protective Order

The nature of the protective order remains somewhat ambiguous, as protective orders are not public records, leaving the specifics of the relationship between Pedersen and the woman unclear. It is known, however, that Pedersen has been divorced since 2020. Legal experts emphasize that initial violations of protective orders are typically treated as misdemeanors, while repeat violations can escalate to felony charges, which carry far more severe penalties, including up to five years in prison.

Court Proceedings and Bond

Judge Bonnie Storbakken set Pedersen's bond at $500, which he did not have to pay upfront. During the hearing, Pedersen requested permission to travel for a work-related conference in Alabama next week, which the judge granted, although travel outside North Dakota is prohibited while the case is active.

Career Background of Cory Pedersen

With a notable career in public service, Pedersen has been the director of Child and Family Services since November 2019, following a long tenure as the deputy director of the Division of Juvenile Services for the North Dakota Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation. His division plays a vital role in shaping policies and delivering services related to child welfare, including adoption, foster care, and family preservation.

Implications and Community Response

As the case unfolds, concerns about the implications for Pedersen's career and the operations of the Child and Family Services linger. The community awaits further developments as Pedersen's trial is scheduled for December 18.

Conclusion

This arrest not only raises questions about Pedersen's future role in child welfare but also highlights critical issues surrounding domestic violence and the adherence to protective orders in North Dakota. Stay tuned for ongoing coverage as this story develops.