Bemidji: Staples Faces Felony Attempted Spitting Charge
BEMIDJI, Minn. (trfnews.i234.me) — Zachary Michael Staples faces a felony assault charge following an August arrest in Bemidji.
Staples, 45, is charged in Beltrami County District Court file 04-CR-26-2007.
He also faces one misdemeanor disorderly conduct charge.
The alleged incident happened on Aug. 22, 2026.
Police Called to People’s Church
The complaint says officers responded to People’s Church regarding a man who was being trespassed.
Police identified the man as Zachary Michael Staples.
Officers believed Staples appeared intoxicated, according to the complaint.
They reported finding an empty vodka bottle on him.
The complaint also describes slurred speech, watery eyes, and trouble maintaining his balance.
Officers helped Staples from the ground and advised him about the trespass.
Prosecutors say Staples then became confrontational with officers.
The complaint alleges he yelled and repeatedly moved toward one officer.
Staples also allegedly tried to bump the officer’s chest.
Officers attempted to create distance, but Staples continued moving toward them, prosecutors allege.
Zachary Michael Staples | Beltrami County booking photo
Attempted Spitting Alleged During Arrest
Police decided to arrest Staples for disorderly conduct, according to the complaint.
Prosecutors say the alleged spitting attempt occurred while Staples was being placed inside a squad vehicle.
The complaint alleges Staples inhaled and then tried to spit onto an officer.
The officer did not notice any saliva land on him.
That detail is important because prosecutors charged Staples with an attempted offense.
No police officer names are included in this report.
Felony Assault Attempt Charge
Count One cites Minnesota Statute 609.2231.
The law makes intentionally transferring bodily fluids onto a peace officer a felony.
The completed offense carries up to three years in prison and a $6,000 fine.
However, Staples is charged with an attempt.
Minnesota Statute 609.17 generally halves the maximum penalty for an attempted offense.
The complaint therefore lists up to 18 months in jail and a $3,000 fine.
Disorderly Conduct Charge
Count Two alleges disorderly conduct under Minnesota Statute 609.72.
The complaint classifies that charge as a misdemeanor.
It carries up to 90 days in jail and a $1,000 fine.
These penalties are maximums and do not represent a sentence against Staples.
Charges Remain Allegations
The criminal complaint contains allegations that have not been proven in court.
Staples is presumed innocent unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
The complaint was filed with an order of detention.
Beltrami County custody information is available through the county inmate locator.
Public court records are available through the Minnesota Judicial Branch.
I’m Adrian Cole reporting for TRF News.
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