Crookston: Man Charged After Gun Found in Semi

Polk County (trfnews.i234.me) — A Virginia man is facing criminal charges in Polk County after authorities say a loaded handgun was found inside his semi-truck during a traffic stop in Crookston.

According to a criminal complaint filed in Minnesota District Court, Roger Dale Cooper, 62, of Ruckersville, Virginia, is charged with carrying or possessing a pistol without a permit in a public place.

Cooper is also charged with fourth-degree driving while impaired involving an alleged controlled substance. The charges stem from an incident reported on June 25, 2026, in Crookston.

Traffic Stop Leads to Investigation

The complaint states the investigation began after a red semi pulling a trailer was seen traveling on U.S. Highway 2.

Authorities said the truck did not display front or rear license plates. The semi also reportedly lacked required company markings and a DOT number.

The driver was identified as Roger Dale Cooper. Court documents state Cooper told officials he did not have his wallet and could not provide his license at the scene.

Cooper reportedly said his Virginia driver’s license was valid. Court records also state he mentioned an active warrant from Georgia.

Loaded Handgun Found Inside Truck

During the investigation, officials reported finding ammunition inside the driver’s side door area of the semi.

Authorities later searched the truck and found a black revolver between the driver and passenger seats.

The complaint states the handgun was loaded with eight rounds. Officials allege Cooper did not have a Minnesota permit to carry the firearm.

Roger Dale Cooper booking photo

Drug Impairment Allegation

After his arrest, Cooper was taken to the Polk County area law enforcement facility.

The complaint states that officials observed signs they believed were consistent with stimulant use.

Cooper allegedly told investigators he last used methamphetamine three days earlier.

Court documents state Cooper provided a urine sample after signing a consent form.

The complaint alleges an initial test showed positive results for methamphetamine, amphetamine, THC, and MDMA.

The sample was later sent to the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension for additional testing.

Court Case Pending

The pistol charge is a gross misdemeanor under Minnesota law. It carries a possible sentence of up to 364 days in jail and a fine of up to $3,000.

The impaired driving charge is a misdemeanor. It carries a possible penalty of up to 90 days in jail and a $1,000 fine.

Online court records show Cooper has previous criminal convictions reported in Arkansas, Georgia, Virginia, and Texas.

All charges are allegations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.

I’m Adrian Cole, reporting for TRF News