CROOKSTON (trfnews.i234.me) — A Grand Forks woman faces a gross misdemeanor charge in Polk County.
Prosecutors accuse Samantha Rose Stern of passing a stopped school bus while a child was outside.
The alleged violation happened around 3:03 p.m.along Elm Street in Crookston.
Complaint Describes Stop-Arm Violation
According to the criminal complaint, the bus stopped and displayed flashing red lights.
Its stop-signal arm was also fully extended as students began leaving the bus.
The complaint says a black Chrysler Town and Country van then passed without stopping.
The final student was still leaving the bus when the van went past, prosecutors allege.
Investigators identified the van as a vehicle used by Polk County Social Services.
School district staff provided video and other materials during the investigation.
Video and Vehicle Logs Reviewed
Investigators later obtained a search warrant for government center video and vehicle use logs.
The complaint says video showed Stern entering the van shortly before 1 p.m.
It also showed her leaving the van shortly after 3 p.m.
Vehicle records reportedly listed a reservation under Samantha S.
The reservation ran from 1 p.m. until about 3:15 p.m.
Stern later spoke with investigators about the incident.
She reportedly said she was driving but did not remember passing the bus.
She also said she often traveled that route toward the Care and Share and library.
Charge Carries Possible Jail and Fine
Stern is charged under Minnesota Statute 169.444.
The charge is a gross misdemeanor because a child was allegedly outside the bus.
A conviction could bring up to 364 days in jail and a fine of up to $3,000.
The case is filed as 60-CR-26-907 in Minnesota’s Ninth Judicial District.
Public case information may be available through Minnesota Court Records Online.
A criminal complaint contains allegations. Stern is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.
I’m Adrian Cole reporting for TRF News.
Copyright 2026 TRF News. All rights reserved.
