Bianca Sampson Sentenced in Detroit Lakes Drug Case

Detroit Lakes (trfnews.i234.me) — Bianca Ann Sampson, 35, has been sentenced on a felony fifth-degree drug possession charge.

Traffic Stop Led to Arrest

Becker County court records say the case began with a January 14, 2025, traffic stop.

The stop took place in Detroit Lakes. A towel covered almost the entire passenger window and blocked visibility.

Sampson was riding in the passenger seat when the vehicle was stopped. The driver was arrested on an outstanding warrant.

Authorities then searched the vehicle, according to court records. A tube used to consume drugs was found inside Sampson’s purse.

Records say the tube contained a rock of methamphetamine. The substance was still in a usable amount, court records state.

Sampson was arrested and later charged with felony fifth-degree drug possession.

Court records also note a first-degree drug conviction from 2020.

Bianca Ann Sampson

District Judge Gretchen Thilmony sentenced Sampson on May 21 in Becker County District Court.

The judge imposed a 15-month prison sentence at the Shakopee facility. However, the prison term was stayed for five years.

Sampson received 66 days in jail. She received credit for all 66 days already served.

She must also pay a $500 fine and $160 in court fees. Those costs are part of the final sentence.

The stayed sentence remains in place during the five-year period. Sampson must follow every condition ordered by the court.

Sampson agreed to enter and successfully complete Drug Court.

She must follow all program rules, policies, directions, and orders. She must also follow instructions from the Drug Court team.

Sampson was placed on supervised probation for five years. The probation term matches the stayed sentence period.

She may not drink alcohol or use illegal drugs. She must also complete a full substance use assessment.

Sampson must follow all treatment recommendations from the assessment. Those requirements include continued care and aftercare services.

The court also ordered cognitive skills training. Sampson must complete cognitive behavioral programs when directed.

Information about Minnesota courts is available through the Minnesota Judicial Branch.

Corrections information is available through the Minnesota Department of Corrections.

I’m Adrian Cole reporting for TRF News.