Fergus Falls Man Faces Drug, Driving Charges

Otter Tail County (trfnews.i234.me) — A Fergus Falls man is facing felony drug charges after a traffic stop led to the discovery of suspected controlled substances and drug-related items.

According to a criminal complaint filed in Otter Tail County District Court, Donald James Helps Sr., 63, of Fergus Falls, is charged with fifth-degree drug possession and driving after cancellation, described as inimical to public safety.

The charges stem from an incident reported on March 3, 2026, in Otter Tail County.

Traffic Stop Leads To Investigation

The complaint states authorities received information that Helps had driven a vehicle to a residence in Otter Tail County.

Officials said Helps’ driver status was listed as canceled due to being considered a public safety risk.

The complaint alleges Helps was seen entering a residence that law enforcement knew from prior investigations.

Authorities later observed Helps leave the location with another person.

According to the complaint, Helps moved to the passenger seat while the other person drove the vehicle.

The vehicle was stopped, and authorities confirmed the identities of both occupants.

The complaint states that Helps admitted he drove the vehicle to the residence and knew his driving status was canceled.

Suspected Drugs And Cash Found

During the investigation, authorities said a search of Helps found a hypodermic needle cap.

The complaint states that a police K9 indicated possible controlled substances inside the vehicle.

Authorities then searched the vehicle and reported finding several items.

The listed items included a digital scale with a white crystalline substance, a glass pipe, and small plastic bags.

The complaint also states that investigators found cash stored in containers inside the vehicle.

Authorities reported finding $3,258 in one location and another money bag containing $5,672.

Investigators also reported finding about 6.3 grams of a substance believed to be psilocybin mushrooms.

According to Minnesota law, psilocybin is classified as a Schedule I controlled substance.

Court Charges

Helps faces one felony count of fifth-degree drug possession.

That charge carries a possible maximum sentence of up to five years in prison, a $10,000 fine, or both.

He also faces a gross misdemeanor charge for driving after cancellation.

That charge carries a possible penalty of up to 364 days in jail, a $3,000 fine, or both.

The allegations are contained in a criminal complaint. Court records show charges are not convictions, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.

More information about Minnesota court records can be found through the Minnesota Judicial Branch.

I’m Adrian Cole, reporting for TRF News.