Badger, Roseau County (trfnews.i234.me) — A traffic stop in Badger led to multiple charges, court records show.
Kopen Lins Sandstrom, 48, of Roseau, faces two counts of Third-Degree Driving While Impaired. He also faces a firearm transport count. He is charged with no proof of insurance. He is also charged with a cannabis open package violation.
The case began with a stop for a license plate light violation. The stop happened in Badger.
What we know so far
A criminal complaint says the stop led to an impairment investigation. The complaint lists two third-degree DWI counts. The filing also lists a firearm allegation. It also lists a cannabis open package allegation.
The complaint is an accusation. It is not a conviction. Sandstrom is presumed innocent in court.
What the laws say
Minnesota law defines third-degree DWI as a gross misdemeanor. The law ties the charge to a DWI with an aggravating factor. Read the statute at Minnesota Statutes section 169A.26.
Minnesota also has an open package rule for cannabis in vehicles. It covers cannabis use in a vehicle on a road. It also covers some opened or noncompliant packaging. Read Minnesota Statutes section 169A.36.
State law also limits how firearms may be carried in vehicles. The rule focuses on unloaded firearms and proper storage. Read Minnesota Statutes section 97B.045.
Minnesota requires drivers to show proof of insurance when asked. The law allows a short time to provide proof. See Minnesota Statutes section 169.791.
Gross misdemeanor cases can carry serious penalties. The exact outcome depends on court findings. Release terms can include conditions and testing. Drivers can also face license action.
What happens next
The case is expected to move through the court system in Roseau County. Hearing dates can change at any time. A judge will set the next steps.
Readers can follow public updates using Minnesota Court Records Online. Search by name or case number.
I’m Chris Harper reporting for TRF News.
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