Detroit Lakes Driver Faces Tax Evasion Charge
Becker County (trfnews.i234.me) — A Detroit Lakes man is facing a gross misdemeanor charge after prosecutors say he failed to properly transfer ownership of a vehicle and pay required taxes.
According to a complaint filed in Becker County District Court, Owen James Walter, born February 27, 2008, is charged with intent to escape taxation under Minnesota Statute 168.35.
The charge is connected to an incident reported on July 9, 2026, in Detroit Lakes. The complaint states the offense involved a failure to properly register a motor vehicle after purchase.
Traffic Stop Leads To Charge
According to court documents, authorities observed a silver Ford pickup traveling in Detroit Lakes. The vehicle was displaying Minnesota license plate YNG9767.
The complaint states the vehicle had dark window tint that appeared to exceed legal limits. Officials also reported that one headlight was not working.
The vehicle later entered the Circle K parking lot, where a traffic stop was conducted.
During the stop, Walter was identified as the driver. Court documents state he told officials he had purchased the truck several months earlier.
Walter reportedly provided an incomplete title document. Records from the Minnesota Department of Public Safety showed the title had not been transferred.
The complaint states the truck also displayed a business logo decal. Officials said Walter had previously been warned about transferring the title before operating the vehicle.
Owen James Walter
Previous Traffic Issues Listed
Court documents state Walter has had multiple previous traffic and equipment-related convictions since February 2025.
The complaint also states he has a history of failing to appear in court or pay fines.
The charge of intent to escape taxation is a gross misdemeanor. It carries a possible maximum penalty of up to 364 days in jail and a $3,000 fine.
All charges are allegations. Walter is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.
More information about Minnesota court records can be found through the Minnesota Judicial Branch.
Copyright 2026 TRF News. All rights reserved.
I’m Adrian Cole, reporting for TRF News.