Bemidji: Frank Big Bear Faces Two DWI Counts

BEMIDJI (trfnews.i234.me) — Frank Big Bear was booked into the Beltrami County Jail on July 8, 2026.

The jail record lists two DWI-related counts under case number 2026010724.

One count alleges driving while under the influence of a controlled substance.

The second count alleges fourth-degree driving while impaired.

Big Bear has not been convicted in connection with these allegations.

Controlled-Substance DWI Allegation

The first count cites Minnesota Statute 169A.20, subdivision 1(2).

That law covers driving, operating, or controlling a vehicle while under a controlled substance’s influence.

The booking record lists this count as a gross misdemeanor.

The supplied record does not identify any suspected controlled substance.

It also does not include test results, traffic-stop details, or information about the vehicle.

Readers can review the law through the Minnesota Revisor of Statutes.

The second count cites Minnesota Statute 169A.27.

State law classifies fourth-degree driving while impaired as a misdemeanor.

The booking entry does not explain why both DWI-related counts appear in the same case.

Further details may become available through later court filings.

The charges remain allegations unless proven beyond a reasonable doubt.

The jail record lists Beltrami County District Court as the court branch.

The court is located at the Beltrami County Judicial Center in Bemidji.

No court date appeared in the booking information provided for this report.

The bail or fine field showed $0.00 when the record was reviewed.

That figure does not explain whether release conditions remain pending.

Jail information can change after court hearings or administrative updates.

Readers can check the Beltrami County District Court page for official court information.

The Beltrami County inmate locator may show later custody updates.

A jail booking records an arrest and the listed allegations.

It does not establish guilt or determine the final result.

Charges can be changed, reduced, or dismissed as a case proceeds.

Frank Big Bear is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.

I’m Adrian Cole, reporting for TRF News.