In a significant legal development, a jury in Grand Forks, North Dakota, has determined that a woman is not guilty of murder in a case dating back to 2007 involving the fatal stabbing of her roommate. The courtroom scene unfolded dramatically as the jury, after more than five hours of deliberation, concluded that Nichole Rice was innocent of the charges brought against her in connection to the death of Anita Knutson, as reported by local news sources.
The emotional atmosphere in the courtroom was palpable when the verdict was pronounced. As the court clerk announced the not guilty verdict, Rice’s supporters, including family and friends, immediately expressed their relief, embracing one another. Rice herself was visibly emotional, shedding tears as the judge intervened to regain order in the courtroom.
Nichole Rice, who is now 37 years old, faced allegations of felony murder concerning the death of Anita Knutson. Knutson, an 18-year-old student also residing at Minot State University, shared an apartment with Rice. Tragically, Knutson was discovered lifeless in their shared living space, found face down in her bed, having sustained two fatal stab wounds to her chest.
Initially, investigators considered Rice as a person of interest in the murder case. However, despite early suspicions, authorities did not arrest her until March 2022. This delay was attributed to the lack of sufficient evidence needed to substantiate an arrest and move forward with charges at that time.