Crime & Safety
Fargo Man Sentenced for Role in Downtown May Riots
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(Fargo, ND) – One of those who broke into businesses during the Downtown Fargo riots in May of last year has been sentenced for his crimes.
United States Attorney Drew Wrigley announced Monday that U.S. District Court Chief Judge Peter D. Welte sentenced 21-year-old Abdimanan Bana Habib to four months incarceration followed by three years of supervised released for the charge
of Civil Disorder. Judge Welte also ordered Habib to pay $2,500 in restitution.
On May 30th, 2020, Habib, a Fargo native, participated in riots that erupted in Fargo following George Floyd’s death in Minneapolis. What started as peaceful protests in Fargo turned violent when rioters, including Habib, broke into several Fargo businesses and buildings, including JL Beers, Vinyl Taco, and the Exchange Building.
In several instances, Habib is seen on video throwing what appeared to be rocks or debris toward police officers. Habib was also seen on video trying to ignite what appeared to be a bottle containing alcohol, but was unsuccessful in doing so.
“The defendant crossed a line when he resorted to violence and destruction,” said Wrigley, “and his choice left him wrapped in a federal indictment for his conduct that further elevated a riot that caused property damage and was a threat to human life.”
