Thief River Falls (trfnews.i234.me) — A Thief River Falls man faces a citation after damage at a local bird-viewing site.
On November 25, a police investigator reviewed surveillance video from the bird-viewing area parking lot.
The site is used by residents and visitors who come to watch wildlife and birds.
The footage showed a vehicle driving in tight circles, sometimes called doing donuts, on the gravel surface.
The spinning tires appeared to tear up the lot and scatter gravel.
The investigator identified the driver as Justin Alan Jourdain, 20, of Thief River Falls.
Jourdain has been cited for fourth-degree property damage in connection with the incident.
According to the report, the damage happened on November 17 in the gravel parking lot at the viewing site.
Officials say the repeated spinning and sliding caused ruts and loose stone, which may require repair.
Fourth-degree property damage cases in Minnesota are often handled as misdemeanor offenses.
Penalties can include fines and restitution, depending on the level of damage and any prior record.
Jourdain is presumed innocent unless and until he is found guilty in court.
Court records will show any formal charges, hearing dates, and final outcomes in the case.
The bird-viewing area is meant for quiet recreation and wildlife watching.
The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources encourages visitors to protect habitat and public facilities at birding sites.
Information about property damage laws and criminal penalties can be found on the Minnesota Judicial Branch
website and other state legal resources.
Local officials remind drivers that parking lots and recreation areas are not safe places for stunts or high-speed driving.
Gravel damage can create hazards for walkers, vehicles, and people with mobility issues.
More details may be released as the case moves through the court system and repair plans for the lot are set.
I’m Chris Harper reporting for TRF News.