According to court documents filed this week in Norman County, a probation search was conducted on July 9 at the residence of Michael P. Padilla in Ada. During the search, methamphetamine was found. Padilla also tested positive for meth use, court records show.
Witnesses reported recent trips to Moorhead, where meth was purchased. They also admitted to using the drug in the presence of children. Prosecutors say this increases the severity of the charges due to child endangerment concerns.
Padilla now faces four felony counts. These include the sale of a controlled substance, possession of methamphetamine, and possession of drugs in the presence of children. Each charge carries significant penalties under Minnesota law, and prosecutors say the case highlights the dangers of drug trafficking in rural communities.
The Norman County Attorney’s Office has not yet announced a trial date. Padilla remains charged while the case moves forward through the court system. Officials note that methamphetamine continues to be a major concern across northwest Minnesota, with increasing links to child endangerment and community safety risks.
More details are expected as the case progresses. Readers can follow updates through official Minnesota court records and future releases from Norman County authorities.
I’m Chris Harper reporting for TRF News.
