Despite a growing tally of law enforcement investigations, no one has ever been convicted under Montana’s human trafficking statute. A bill proposed to state lawmakers on Wednesday would theoretically give prosecutors a better chance to secure those convictions, Montana Attorney General Austin Knudsen told the House Judiciary Committee. Knudsen, former Republican Speaker of House, said… Read More
New bill looks to strengthen human trafficking laws in Montana
HELENA, Mont. – Montana’s Attorney General is working to strengthen laws around human trafficking this legislative session. AG Austin Knudsen introduced house bill 112, which is a rewrite and revision of current human trafficking statutes in the state. They update the penalties for human traffickers and those soliciting prostitution. “Right now under Montana law, you… Read More
Austin Knudsen: Law enforcement fighting human trafficking, but needs more resources
It’s a horrific reality for Montanans to consider, but human trafficking takes place every day in our state. The odds are most of you have seen it but didn’t know. Last month, a man involved in a sex trafficking ring in Billings was sentenced to nearly 27 years after exploiting vulnerable victims for nearly a… Read More
Attorney General-Elect Austin Knudsen Announces Senior Staff Appointments
Culbertson, MT – Attorney General-Elect Austin Knudsen today announced the appointment of several senior level staff. “I look forward to working alongside this talented group of exceptional leaders,” Attorney General-Elect Austin Knudsen said. “The diverse backgrounds and depth of experience of our leadership team will serve the Department of Justice and the people of Montana… Read More
Attorney General-Elect Austin Knudsen Announces Department of Justice Division Administrators
Culbertson, MT – Attorney General-Elect Austin Knudsen today announced the appointment of several division administrators to help lead the Department of Justice. “We have assembled a tremendous group of talented individuals; I am excited to have each one of them on our team,” Attorney General-Elect Austin Knudsen said. “Working together we will improve efficiencies in… Read More
Attorney General-Elect Austin Knudsen Announces Pick to Lead Highway Patrol
Culbertson, MT – Attorney General-Elect Austin Knudsen today announced that Major Steve Lavin will take command as the next Colonel of the Montana Highway Patrol. “Steve has the vision, experience and leadership ability we need to tackle the difficult challenges we face,” Attorney General-Elect Austin Knudsen said. “His integrity and steadfast devotion to duty will… Read More
Attorney General-Elect Austin Knudsen Announces Transition Advisory Committee
Culbertson, MT – Attorney General-Elect Austin Knudsen today announced the members of his Transition Advisory Committee. “I’m excited to have such a great group leading our transition,” Attorney General-Elect Austin Knudsen said. “Our committee represents a broad cross-section of Montanans that will help us put together capable, hardworking team to lead the Department of Justice.”… Read More
Knudsen gets the nod for attorney general
As of Wednesday morning, AP has called Montana’s attorney general race for Republican Austin Knudsen. The current Roosevelt County Attorney and former state House Speaker led his opponent, Democrat Raph Graybill, by more than 90,000 with 93% of precincts reporting. “Thank you, Montana, for trusting me with the responsibility of serving as your Attorney General,”… Read More
Drugs, health care and budgets
Montana’s next attorney general will be in the driver’s seat for influential legal fights, addressing the state’s ongoing drug and alcohol use issues and helping local officials handle crime. Previous attorneys general have approached those duties with their own political philosophies and legal priorities. Depending on the November outcome of the race between Republican Austin… Read More
Graybill, Knudsen look to square off in November for attorney general
Republican Austin Knudsen and Democrat Raph Graybill are thanking their supporters and looking ahead to November when they’ll square off in the attorney general’s race. Knudsen led the two-way Republican primary 60% to 40%, with roughly 116,000 votes to Jon Bennion’s approximately 78,000. Wednesday morning’s results were unofficial. For the Democrats, Graybill showed roughly 80,000… Read More