Bemidji Man Charged In DWI Test Refusal
Bemidji, Minnesota (trfnews.i234.me) — Damien Leon Robinson of Bemidji is facing a gross misdemeanor charge after a May 1 traffic stop in Beltrami County.
According to a criminal complaint filed in Beltrami County District Court, Robinson is charged with refusing to submit to a chemical breath test.
The charge was filed under Minnesota Statute 169A.20. The complaint also references Minnesota Statute 169A.26.
Speeding Stop Leads To DWI Investigation
The complaint states a state trooper saw a vehicle speeding on Paul Bunyan Drive Southeast.
The vehicle was allegedly traveling 70 mph in a posted 55 mph zone.
During the stop, Robinson identified himself to law enforcement.
The complaint says an empty Twisted Tea can was seen near the center console.
The officer also reported watery and bloodshot eyes, slurred speech, and an odor of alcohol.
Field Tests And Breath Test Allegations
Robinson allegedly told the trooper he had one or two drinks before driving.
The complaint says Robinson agreed to field sobriety tests.
Authorities reported signs of impairment during several tests.
Those tests included eye movement, walk-and-turn, and one-leg stand exercises.
The complaint says Robinson lost balance and missed steps during the walk-and-turn test.
He also allegedly used his arms for balance during the one-leg stand test.
According to the complaint, a preliminary breath test showed a result of .199.
Jail Breath Test Refusal Alleged
Robinson was then arrested and taken to jail.
The complaint says he was read the breath test advisory.
He was also given time to speak with a lawyer.
Authorities allege Robinson refused the official breath test at the jail.
He allegedly said he had already taken a preliminary breath test.
The complaint says Robinson later agreed to test, then changed his mind again.
The charge carries a maximum sentence of 364 days in jail, a $3,000 fine, or both.
Court records can be searched through Minnesota Court Records Online.
A criminal complaint is only an allegation.
Robinson is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.
I’m Chris Harper reporting for TRF News.