Charge filed against Bismarck lawmaker in office lease deal with Stenehjem’s office

BISMARCK, N.D. (KVRR-KFGO) – A state representative from Bismarck has been charged with a misdemeanor in an office-lease deal with the attorney general’s office, an agreement reached before the death of Attorney General Wayne Stenehjem in Jan. of 2022.

Republican Jason Dockter was charged Dec. 21 with “Speculating or wagering on official action or information” in Burleigh County District Court. McClean County State’s Attorney Ladd Erickson is prosecuting the case.

Dockter was part-owner of an office building in Bismarck that the state leased. Current Attorney General Drew Wrigley discovered cost-overruns for remodeling of the building.

Without appearing in court, Dockter has pleaded not guilty. A May 3 trial date has been set.