Moorhead Stop Leads to Stolen Truck Charge

Richard Emil Heintzelman, 65, of Hot Springs, is charged with receiving stolen property. The charge was filed in Clay County District Court.

The case involves a Chevrolet Silverado reported stolen before the traffic stop. Court records list the alleged offense date as June 27, 2026.

Police Recognize Reported Stolen Pickup

According to the complaint, Moorhead police saw the maroon and silver Silverado leaving a garage. The pickup was near 20th Street South.

An officer recognized the vehicle as a previously reported stolen truck. Police then stopped the Silverado and identified Heintzelman as the driver.

The complaint says officers advised Heintzelman of his rights. He reportedly declined to answer questions during the stop.

The complaint says police found different license plates on the front and rear. The front plate was registered to a 2007 Chevrolet Trailblazer.

Richard Emil Heintzelman

The rear plate was registered to a 2003 Chevrolet Silverado. Officers also found another license plate inside the truck bed.

Owner Identifies Truck at Scene

The vehicle owner arrived and identified the Silverado as his truck. He also reported that cash appeared to be missing from the vehicle.

While traveling to jail, Heintzelman was asked about his current address. The complaint says he described himself as homeless.

Heintzelman then allegedly said he had been “joyriding” in the truck. He also allegedly said the keys were left inside.

Felony Charge Filed

Prosecutors charged Heintzelman under Minnesota Statute 609.53. The law covers receiving or possessing stolen property.

The complaint also cites Minnesota theft penalties involving a stolen motor vehicle. A conviction could bring five years in prison.

The court could also impose a fine reaching $10,000. A sentence could include both prison time and a fine.

The case is filed as State of Minnesota v. Richard Emil Heintzelman. The court file number is 14-CR-26-2239.

Public case information may be available through Minnesota Court Records Online.

Information about the courthouse is available through the Clay County District Court website.

Charges are accusations and do not prove guilt. Heintzelman is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.

I’m Adrian Cole, reporting for TRF News.