FARGO, N.D. (AP) — A Fargo surgeon accused of drugging and sexually assaulting his wife has withdrawn his earlier pleas and is likely headed to trial in August.
Dr. Jon Norberg had entered Alford pleas in January to charges of felony reckless endangerment and misdemeanor sexual assault. An Alford plea means he did not admit wrongdoing but acknowledged there was enough evidence to convict him.
Norberg now faces the original charges of felony gross sexual imposition and reckless endangerment.
Norberg read from a prepared statement after Thursday’s hearing. He said if the case goes to trial he will prove his innocence and “end this nightmare which has been created for me and my children.”
The Associated Press typically does not identify victims of sex crimes, but Norberg’s wife, Alonna, has spoken publicly.
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