# Fargo man gets 10 years first in assault case

> A Fargo sexual assault case ended with prison time, probation, treatment, and several dismissed charges under a plea deal.
- Title: Fargo man gets 10 years first in assault case · Valleynewslive
- Summary: A Fargo sexual assault case ended with prison time, probation, treatment, and several dismissed charges under a plea deal. Pelaez must serve 10 years now…
- Keywords: crime, courts, fargo, sentencing, news, local, man, gets, years, first, assault, case
- Source: Valleynewslive — https://valleynewslive.com/2026/09/15/fargo-man-sentenced-first-serve-10-years-2025-sexual-assault-case
- Published: 2026-09-15T21:58:26.774+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: crime, courts, fargo, sentencing, news, local
## Ten years first
Paul Edward Pelaez received a 20-year sentence, but the judge ordered him to first serve 10 years in prison for gross sexual imposition.

> will first serve 10 years in prison
## Plea avoided trial
Pelaez entered an Alford plea in April, accepting that prosecutors had enough evidence to convict him without directly admitting guilt.

> admitting there was enough evidence to convict him
## Probation carries risk
After release, Pelaez faces five years of supervised probation. If he violates those terms, the suspended 10 years can be imposed.
## Strict terms ordered
He must register as a sex offender, complete treatment, and follow a no-contact order barring contact with the victim.

> must register as a sex offender
## Other charges dismissed
Seven other charges were dropped under the plea agreement, including more gross sexual imposition counts, terrorizing charges, and a misdemeanor.
## Arrest followed threats
Police arrested Pelaez in January 2025 after the victim reported a sexual assault and threats involving her workplace and family members.

> threatening to shoot up her workplace
## Key takeaway

Pelaez must serve 10 years now, with another 10 years hanging over him if he violates probation after release.