Bemidji Man Charged After Motorcycle Pursuit

Beltrami County (trfnews.i234.me) — A Bagley man is facing multiple charges after authorities say he fled from officers on a motorcycle in Beltrami County.

James Robert Dukek, 56, of Bagley, is charged with felony fleeing a peace officer in a motor vehicle. He also faces gross misdemeanor charges for DWI involving a controlled substance and driving after cancellation of his license.

Dukek is also charged with misdemeanor fleeing a peace officer by means other than a motor vehicle.

Motorcycle Chase Reported In Bemidji Area

According to court documents, the incident happened late on June 26, 2026, after Beltrami County Dispatch received a report of a possible domestic disturbance at a Bemidji residence.

Authorities said a motorcycle left the area as officers arrived. The driver was later identified as Dukek.

Officers attempted to stop the motorcycle, but court documents state the rider continued traveling through streets, grass areas, and gravel roads.

The motorcycle eventually left the roadway near Stone Lake Road and entered a wooded area.

Booking photo of James Robert Dukek.

Driver Allegedly Fled Into Woods

According to the complaint, Dukek left the motorcycle and ran into thick brush after the crash.

Authorities said he later came out of the woods and was taken into custody.

The complaint states investigators found a small plastic bag containing white pills and a broken glass smoking device near the area where Dukek had fled.

Dukek was taken for medical clearance before being booked into jail.

DWI And License Charges Filed

Court documents state Dukek admitted he had consumed three alcoholic drinks before driving.

Investigators reported signs that suggested possible impairment. A blood sample was later collected for testing.

The complaint states Dukek’s Minnesota driver’s license had previously been canceled as dangerous to public safety.

Authorities also reported Dukek has prior DWI convictions and previous driving-after-cancellation convictions.

Charges Remain Allegations

The charges against Dukek are allegations contained in a criminal complaint. He is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.

Court records show the case was filed in Beltrami County District Court.

For more Minnesota court and crime updates, visit TRF News.

I’m Adrian Cole reporting for TRF News