The North Dakota Supreme Court issued a full ruling Friday that keeps Dallas Rice on bond while his criminal case proceeds. The high court affirmed the $5,000 personal appearance bond set earlier this month and declined to assign a new judge, noting that Rice has not yet requested a change at the district level.
Background of the case
Rice faces two felony counts tied to an alleged theft of more than $180,000 from the recreation organization Souris Valley Bowmen. Prosecutors say Rice and his wife, Nichole, misappropriated the funds over three years while serving as the group’s president and treasurer, positions that gave them access to the organization’s bank accounts.
After Dallas Rice pleaded guilty last month, District Judge Gary Lee rejected a proposed plea agreement and ordered Rice taken into custody. Rice’s attorney, Ashley Gulke, appealed to the state Supreme Court, arguing that Judge Lee erred by refusing to let Rice withdraw his plea and retain bond once the deal fell apart. Gulke also sought a new judge, claiming bias on the part of Judge Lee.
Supreme Court’s decision
The Supreme Court’s brief order earlier this week granted Rice the right to withdraw his plea and reinstated bond, assigning a $5,000 personal appearance bond. This type of bond allows the defendant to be released without paying money up front, though the full amount becomes payable if he fails to appear at future court dates.
In its full opinion, the court stopped short of appointing a new judge. The justices explained that Rice has not formally requested a change of judge in the district court, and therefore the request could not be granted at the state level.
Next steps in the legal process
Rice’s case will continue with a status conference scheduled for November 17. A jury trial is set to begin on January 19, 2027, in Minot. Meanwhile, Nichole Rice, who pleaded guilty to one of the charges in September, received a sentence of 60 days in jail.
The court’s ruling underscores the importance of procedural safeguards even in serious criminal matters. By allowing Rice to remain on bond, the justices ensure that the defendant can continue to prepare his defense while awaiting trial, a cornerstone of due‑process rights.
Community impact
The case has drawn attention in Minot and the surrounding region, given the involvement of a local recreation group and the sizable sum alleged to have been stolen. Residents and members of Souris Valley Bowmen have expressed concern over the misuse of funds that were intended for community activities.
Local officials have not commented further, but the upcoming trial will likely bring additional scrutiny to the management practices of nonprofit organizations in the area.
Original reporting: KFYR-TV Bismarck (news) — read the source article.
