Cass Lake (trfnews.i234.me) — A Cass Lake man is facing a felony charge after authorities say he failed to stop for a traffic officer in Beltrami County.
Michael Leon Jackson, 55, of Cass Lake, has been charged in Beltrami County District Court with fleeing a peace officer in a motor vehicle.
The charge is a felony under Minnesota Statute 609.487. If convicted, Jackson could face up to three years and one day in prison. He could also face a $5,000 fine, or both.
Traffic Stop Attempt Reported
According to the court complaint, the incident happened on May 4, 2026, at about 11:07 p.m.
A Beltrami County traffic safety deputy reported seeing a dark sport utility vehicle towing a trailer. The vehicle was traveling south on Mission Road Southeast.
The complaint says the vehicle crossed the fog line twice. The deputy then tried to make a traffic stop.
Authorities say the driver did not stop after emergency lights were activated. The vehicle continued south before turning onto Quill Lane Southeast.
The deputy then activated a siren, according to the complaint. The vehicle still did not stop.
Michael Leon Jackson
Driver Allegedly Continued To Residence
Court records say the driver put his arm and head out of the window. He appeared to yell toward the deputy.
The complaint says repeated commands were given over a squad loudspeaker. The driver was told to pull over.
Instead, authorities say the vehicle accelerated and continued for about one-quarter mile. It then entered a property on Quill Lane Southeast.
Once the vehicle stopped, the driver got out, according to the complaint. Authorities say he did so despite commands to stay inside.
The driver was later identified as Michael Leon Jackson. The complaint says Jackson told law enforcement he did not stop because he wanted to bring his trailer to the residence.
Jackson Taken Into Custody
Jackson was taken into custody by assisting officers. He was then transported to the Beltrami County Jail without further incident.
The complaint also lists a pending charge for violating an order for protection. It also lists a prior conviction for violating an order for protection.
A criminal complaint is not a conviction. Jackson is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.
Court proceedings are being handled in Beltrami County District Court. More Minnesota court information can be found through the Minnesota Judicial Branch.
I’m Chris Harper reporting for TRF News.