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Casselton Man Charged After Threats, Assault Claim

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Casselton (trfnews.i234.me) — A Casselton, North Dakota, man faces new criminal charges.
Court documents describe threats and an alleged assault against a woman.
The report says the incident was reported on Dec. 5.

What court documents allege

Authorities identified the suspect as Austin Joseph Trautmann, of Casselton.
A deputy responded after a call for help, according to court records.
The woman told investigators she was assaulted inside a home.

Austin Joseph Trautmann mugshot
Austin Joseph Trautmann

The woman said she hid in a bathroom during the incident.
She reported the door was kicked in, according to the complaint.
She also reported that Trautmann squeezed her arm.
She said he threw her to the ground.

The deputy noted broken items inside the home, court records say.
The woman also reported threats to kill her.
She said he claimed he could return and kill her.

Charges filed

Trautmann is charged with felony terrorizing tied to domestic violence.
He is also charged with misdemeanor domestic violence.
The charges are allegations and have not been proven in court.

What happens next

A judge will set future hearings in the case.
Prosecutors may review evidence and witness statements.
Defense attorneys may challenge the claims in court.
Court dates and charge counts can change over time.

Trautmann is presumed innocent unless proven guilty.
Anyone in immediate danger should call 911.
People seeking help can also contact local victim services.

Helpful public links

You can look up public case information through the North Dakota Courts Public Access.
You can also read North Dakota laws through the North Dakota Century Code.
Support resources are available through the National Domestic Violence Hotline.

I’m Chris Harper reporting for TRF News.

Fargo: Gardner Man Charged After Stolen Car Stop

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Fargo, North Dakota (trfnews.i234.me) — A man from Gardner, North Dakota, is facing several criminal charges after officers found him slumped behind the wheel of a parked car in Fargo, according to court documents.

Cody Allen Willson, listed as being from Gardner, is charged after an early-morning call on Dec. 5. The incident happened around 5:28 a.m. in the 1500 block of 2nd Avenue South in Fargo, according to the complaint.

What court documents allege

Mugshot: Cody Allen Willson
Cody Allen Willson (booking photo)

According to court records, officers found Willson slumped over in the driver’s seat of a parked vehicle. The records say the vehicle had been reported stolen.

The complaint also alleges Willson had drug paraphernalia and controlled substances. The filing lists cocaine, methamphetamine, and heroin.

Authorities arrested Willson after the reported discovery, according to the documents. The case is expected to proceed through the court process in North Dakota.

Charges filed

Court records show Willson is now facing multiple charges. Those include conspiracy to commit theft of property, possession of drug paraphernalia, and three counts of drug possession. The drug counts listed are for cocaine, methamphetamine, and heroin.

He is also charged with driving under the influence, according to the complaint.

Related laws and case info

North Dakota’s DUI law is outlined in the state code here:
ND Century Code 39-08-01.

North Dakota controlled substance laws are published here:
ND Century Code Title 19, Chapter 03.1.

Public court information may be available through the North Dakota Courts system:
ndcourts.gov.

Criminal complaints contain allegations. A defendant is presumed innocent in court.

I’m Chris Harper reporting for TRF News.

Plummer, Thief River Falls: Holiday Train Dec. 16

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Plummer and Thief River Falls, Minnesota (trfnews.i234.me) — The CPKC Holiday Train will stop in Plummer and Thief River Falls on Tuesday, Dec. 16, 2025.

The Holiday Train is traveling in Canada and the United States through Dec. 21. The tour raises money, food, and awareness for food banks. Each stop includes a free concert from the train’s stage. CPKC also donates to the local food bank at each stop. Attendees are encouraged to give money or heart-healthy food.

Plummer stop

The train is expected near the Central Avenue railway crossing at about 6 p.m. Tuesday. Activities begin earlier, starting at 4 p.m.

The Tri-Rivers Museum plans to serve food and offer tours. The menu includes BBQ sandwiches, homemade soup, popcorn, hot cocoa, and coffee.

Santa is scheduled to arrive at the museum at 4:45 p.m. Music is also planned at 5 p.m.

D & K Bar plans to serve hot cocoa, cider, and treats. The Plummer American Legion plans to serve cinnamon rolls and hot cocoa from 6 to 8 p.m.

Donations will be accepted for the Inter-County Community Council Food Shelf. Volunteers may also collect donations during the event.

Mugshot

(CPKC Holiday Train)

Thief River Falls stop

The train is expected to arrive outside Thief River Falls City Hall at about 7:30 p.m. Tuesday.

Thief River Falls Area Food Shelf volunteers will be on site. They are expected to wear vests. Kids’ glow toys will be sold to help raise funds.

Rivers & Rails Brewing Company plans to be open from 4:30 to 9 p.m. on Tuesday. The business says people can watch from the deck. The location plans fire and treats as the train rolls by.

Rivers & Rails says it will donate $1 from every drink sold to the Thief River Falls Area Food Shelf. Fresh s’mores are also expected to be available for sale. Pizza is also planned.

Who is performing

The northwest Minnesota stops will feature LANCO and Tiera Kennedy.

LANCO is known for chart success and national touring. The band has also shared stages with major country acts. LANCO’s “We’re Gonna Make It Tour” is set to launch in Minneapolis in February 2025.

Tiera Kennedy is an emerging country voice and a singer-songwriter. She has earned attention for high-profile collaborations and appearances. She also released the album “Rooted” independently.

Planning note: Train arrival times can shift. Organizers encourage people to arrive early.

I’m Chris Harper reporting for TRF News.

Bemidji Woman Charged After Knife Threat Call

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Bemidji, Minnesota (trfnews.i234.me) — A Bemidji woman is facing criminal charges after a reported knife threat at a residence early Dec. 8.

Amira Erin Rossbach, of Bemidji, is charged in connection with the incident. Court documents describe a confrontation that led to a 911 response around 1:00 a.m.

What court documents allege

Mugshot: Amira Erin Rossbach
Amira Erin Rossbach (booking photo)

According to court documents, deputies responded to a Bemidji home at about 1:00 a.m. on Dec. 8. The records say a female victim reported Rossbach grabbed a knife.

The documents say Rossbach stated she wanted to stab people. The victim told investigators she went into a bedroom to get away.

Court records allege Rossbach then stabbed the bedroom door several times. The victim reported Rossbach was trying to get into the room.

Charges filed

Rossbach was arrested and is now charged with one felony count of terroristic threats. She is also charged with one misdemeanor count of assault.

Minnesota’s terroristic threats law is posted here: Minnesota Statute 609.713.

Minnesota’s assault laws are listed here: Minnesota Statute 609.224.

What happens next

Criminal complaints are allegations. A defendant is presumed innocent in court. The case is expected to move through hearings in Beltrami County.

Public case information is often available through the Minnesota Judicial Branch: mncourts.gov.

I’m Chris Harper reporting for TRF News.

Hazardous Weather Outlook

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622
FLUS43 KFGF 131153
HWOFGF

Hazardous Weather Outlook
National Weather Service Grand Forks ND
553 AM CST Sat Dec 13 2025

MNZ001-004-005-007>009-013>017-022>024-NDZ006>008-015-016-026-027-
054-141200-
West Polk-Kittson-Roseau-West Marshall-East Marshall-
North Beltrami-Pennington-Red Lake-East Polk-North Clearwater-
South Beltrami-Mahnomen-South Clearwater-Hubbard-Towner-Cavalier-
Pembina-Ramsey-Eastern Walsh-Nelson-Grand Forks-Western Walsh-
553 AM CST Sat Dec 13 2025

This hazardous weather outlook is for portions of eastern North
Dakota, west central and northwest Minnesota.

.DAY ONE...Today and Tonight

Dangerously cold wind chills continue today, improving only
marginally from below -40 this morning to around -30 this
afternoon.

.DAYS TWO THROUGH SEVEN...Sunday through Friday

Wind chill values into Sunday morning will fall as low as 40
below zero.

.SPOTTER INFORMATION STATEMENT...

Spotter activation is not anticipated today.

$$

MNZ002-003-006-027>032-040-NDZ014-024-028>030-038-039-049-052-053-
141200-
Norman-Clay-Lake Of The Woods-West Becker-East Becker-Wilkin-
West Otter Tail-East Otter Tail-Wadena-Grant-Benson-Eddy-Griggs-
Steele-Traill-Barnes-Cass-Ransom-Sargent-Richland-
553 AM CST Sat Dec 13 2025

This hazardous weather outlook is for portions of eastern North
Dakota, west central and northwest Minnesota.

.DAY ONE...Today and Tonight

Hazardous wind chills down to -40 this morning will improve only
marginally to the -20s this afternoon.

.DAYS TWO THROUGH SEVEN...Sunday through Friday

Wind chill values into Sunday morning will fall as low as 40
below zero.

.SPOTTER INFORMATION STATEMENT...

Spotter activation is not anticipated today.

$$


Richville Woman Charged After Knife Incident

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Richville, Minnesota (trfnews.i234.me) — A Richville woman is facing criminal charges in Otter Tail County. The case follows a dispute over attending a holiday event.

Mary M. Sweazey, of Richville, is charged after an argument with a juvenile. Court documents say the juvenile did not want to attend the event. The records say the dispute turned physical.

What court documents allege

Mugshot: Mary M. Sweazey
Mary M. Sweazey (booking photo)

According to court documents, the juvenile ran to a relative’s home. The records say Sweazey went to that home afterward.

The documents allege Sweazey had a butcher knife in her hand. The records say she confronted a male relative at the home. The documents say the relative used a cane to keep her away.

Sweazey later spoke with a deputy, according to the filing. The records say she claimed she carried the knife for protection. She cited past issues involving the relative.

Charges filed

Sweazey was arrested and is now charged in Otter Tail County. She faces one felony count of assault with a dangerous weapon. She also faces a misdemeanor domestic assault charge.

Minnesota law outlines assault with a dangerous weapon here: Minnesota Statute 609.222.

Minnesota’s domestic assault statute is posted here: Minnesota Statute 609.2242.

What happens next

Criminal charges are allegations. A defendant is presumed innocent in court. More details may emerge through hearings and filings.

Case updates are often listed through the Minnesota Judicial Branch: mncourts.gov.

I’m Chris Harper reporting for TRF News.

Bemidji Snowstorm Chase: Driver Charged

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Bemidji, Minnesota (trfnews.i234.me) — A Bemidji man is now facing criminal charges after a reported pursuit during Tuesday night’s snowstorm.

Shane L. Gilliland, of Bemidji, is charged in connection with the incident. Court records allege he fled a traffic stop and drove more than 10 miles before stopping at a home.

What court records say happened

According to court documents, the incident started around 6:30 p.m. on Tuesday. The records say Gilliland fled a traffic stop near 11th Street Northwest in Bemidji.

Mugshot: Shane L. Gilliland
Shane L. Gilliland (booking photo)

The documents state the vehicle traveled for more than 10 miles. The pursuit ended when the vehicle pulled into a residence on Sandpiper Road and stopped.

Charges filed

Gilliland now faces a felony count of fleeing a peace officer in a motor vehicle. He also faces gross misdemeanor charges. Those include DWI test refusal and driving after cancellation.

State law outlines penalties for fleeing an officer. You can read the statute here: Minnesota Statute 609.487.

Minnesota’s DWI laws and test refusal rules are also posted online. See: Minnesota Statute 169A.20 and Minnesota Statute 169A.52.

The driving after cancellation law is listed here: Minnesota Statute 171.24.

What we know next

Court filings are allegations, and a defendant is presumed innocent. The case will move forward in the court process. Additional details may come out in future hearings.

I’m Chris Harper reporting for TRF News.

Thief River Falls: Clayton Loiland Dies at 81

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Thief River Falls (trfnews.i234.me) — Clayton Loiland of Thief River Falls, Minnesota, passed away on Monday, December 8, 2025.
He was 81.
He died in Fargo, North Dakota, according to his family.

Visitation will be held from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. on Friday, December 12, 2025, at Johnson Funeral Service
in Thief River Falls.
A celebration of life service will follow at 6:00 p.m.
Rev. Tim Lundeen will officiate.

Clayton Matthew Loiland of Thief River Falls, Minnesota
Clayton Matthew Loiland

Early Life

Clayton Matthew Loiland was born on May 25, 1944, at Mercy Hospital in Thief River Falls.
His parents were Olaf Loiland and Myrtle Johnson.

He attended school through the ninth grade.
Family members say he then began a life built around steady work.
He spent many years farming.
He also worked at Arctic Cat.

Work and Daily Life

Clayton liked to stay busy, according to his family.
He took on many odd jobs over the years.
Those included straightening buildings and doing steel roofing.
He also tore down and moved buildings.

He did mechanic work.
He raised beef cattle.
He also milked cows.
Loved ones say he was happiest when he had a project to do.

Family

On November 1, 1982, Clayton married Betty Jean (Englund) Zavoral.
The couple built a life together in Thief River Falls.

Clayton is survived by his wife, Betty.
He is also survived by two sons, Mike Loiland and Jeremy (Alison) Loiland, both of Thief River Falls.
He is survived by a daughter, Marion Johnson of Strandquist.
He is also survived by a son, Steve (Jodi) Zavoral of Thief River Falls.

Grandsons include Eli Johnson, Jake Zavoral, Tristan (Cassidy) Loiland, and Aiden Loiland.
He is also survived by a great-grandson, William Loiland.
He is survived by a sister, Joyce Ruud of Isanti.

Survivors also include sisters-in-law Shirley (Clayton) Omlid of Isanti, Karen Loiland of Ortonville, Ila (Englund) Hagen of Gatzke, and Sharon Englund of Warroad.
He is also survived by a brother-in-law, Ken Englund of Thief River Falls, and his special friend, Barb Nomeland.
The family also lists several nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends.

Preceded in Death

Clayton was preceded in death by his great-granddaughter, Addison Loiland.
He was also preceded in death by his daughter-in-law, Tami Nelson.
He was preceded in death by his son-in-law, Bruce Johnson.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Olaf and Myrtle.
He was also preceded in death by brothers Julian Loiland and John (Dennis) Loiland.
The family also lists brothers-in-law Galen, Dwayne, Jerry, and Vernie Englund, and a sister-in-law, Pat Loiland.

May his memory bring comfort to those who knew him.

I’m Chris Harper reporting for TRF News.

Grygla: Gwen Saurdiff Dies at 70; Service Dec. 15

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Grygla (trfnews.i234.me) — Gwen Saurdiff, 70, of Grygla, Minnesota, passed away peacefully at her residence on Tuesday, December 9, 2025.

A celebration of life for Gwen will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Monday, December 15, 2025.at Grace Lutheran Church in Grygla.
Reverend Vicki Saude-Worthington will officiate.

Visitation and Burial Details

Visitation will be held from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. on Sunday, December 14, 2025, at Grace Lutheran Church in Grygla.
A prayer service will begin at 6:00 p.m.

Visitation will also be held one hour before the service on Monday.
Burial will follow at Valle Cemetery in rural Grygla.

Gwen Saurdiff of Grygla, Minnesota
Gwen Saurdiff

Early Life

Gwen Dawn Hanson was born on August 24, 1955, in Thief River Falls.
Her parents were Clarence and Adeline (Erickson) Hanson.
She was baptized and confirmed at Nazareth Lutheran Church in rural Trail.

She attended school in Goodridge and graduated in 1973.
Gwen married David Saurdiff on May 2, 1975.
They had four children.

Work, Farm Life, and Interests

Gwen and David farmed and raised livestock near Grygla for 25 years.
Over the years, she has worked many jobs.
Those included the family farm, Marvin Windows, and The Steak Knife II.

She also worked for the U.S. Post Office, Machinewell, and the Farmers’ Union.
Family members say she stayed active and enjoyed the outdoors.
She loved flowers, gardening, and watching birds.

She enjoyed hunting, fishing, camping, and snowmobiling.
She also liked painting and doing puzzles.
She watched church on television.
She loved time with family and friends.
She was known for “just one more cup” of coffee.

Survivors

Gwen is survived by her former husband, David Saurdiff of Grygla.
She is also survived by their children: Benjerman Saurdiff of Two Rivers, Alaska; Jennifer (Ryan) Wichterman of Plummer; Curtiss Saurdiff of Grygla; and Renae Saurdiff of Grygla.

She is survived by siblings: RaeAnn (Roger) Pittman of Goodridge; Vicki Lott of Grygla; Grant (Judy) Hanson of Salol; Carmen (Steve) Narverud of Thief River Falls; and Aaron (Marie) Hanson of Roseau.

Grandchildren include Jazzmine Teggatz, Dylan, Dalton, Fern, and Adeline Wichterman;
Madison and Wyatt Saurdiff; Aria Saurdiff; Oliver Smeby; and Jeffrey and Isabelle Saurdiff.
Great-grandchildren include Zoey, Silas, Madden, and Kingsley Teggatz, and Violet Harris.
The family also lists extended family members.

Preceded in Death

Gwen was preceded in death by her parents, Clarence and Adeline Hanson.
She was also preceded in death by her brother, Neil Hanson.
Grandparents listed include Knute and Gladys Hanson, and John and Emma Erickson.

I’m Chris Harper reporting for TRF News.

Thief River Falls: Robben “Chief” Rux Dies at 68

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Thief River Falls (trfnews.i234.me) — Robben Lynn “Chief” Rux of Thief River Falls, Minnesota, died peacefully at his home on Tuesday, December 9, 2025.
He was 68.

The family says a celebration of life service is being planned for the spring.
More details are expected at a later date.

Life and Background

Robben Lynn “Chief” Rux was born October 15, 1957, in Thief River Falls.
He grew up in St. Hilaire with his parents, Elaine and Wayne Kruse.
He also grew up with siblings Randy, Rick, Ranae, Penny, and Jon.

He graduated from Lincoln High School in Thief River Falls.
Family members say he was known for working hard.
They say he took pride in providing for others.

Robben Lynn 'Chief' Rux
Robben Lynn “Chief” Rux

Work History

Over the years, Rux held several jobs in the area.
He worked at Cenex on 8th Street.
He also delivered propane and anhydrous through St. Hilaire Supply.

He drove for Northland Taxi in Thief River Falls.
He later served as a supervisor at 7 Clans Casino.
He also worked in the automotive department at Walmart.

He later retired due to health complications.

Survivors and Preceded in Death

Rux is survived by his son, Robby (Alana) Rux of Thief River Falls.
He is also survived by grandchildren Christopher Rux, Keagan Rux, and Marek Rux.

He is survived by his father, Wayne Kruse.
He is also survived by siblings Rick (Stephanie), Rob, Penny (Jimmy), and Jon.
The family also lists many nieces, nephews, cousins, relatives, and friends.

He was preceded in death by his daughter, Amy.
He was also preceded in death by his mother, Elaine Kruse.
He was preceded in death by siblings Randy and Ranae.
He was also preceded in death by his aunt, Eunice Rolandson.

More Information

Readers looking for resources may visit the CDC’s mental health and grief information
or the Minnesota Department of Health vital records page.

I’m Chris Harper reporting for TRF News.