Otter Tail County (trfnews.i234.me) — Christopher Steven Olson faces four charges after a September 16 traffic stop in Otter Tail County.
The complaint says a deputy saw a vehicle driving on its front right rim around 10:07 a.m.
No tire was attached to the rim, according to the complaint.
The rim was scraping the concrete roadway and damaging the pavement.
The deputy stopped the vehicle near Beach Bum’s restaurant on County Highway 72.
The driver was identified as Christopher Steven Olson of Battle Lake.
Vehicle Stop Raises Safety Concerns
According to the complaint, Olson left the vehicle and approached the deputy after stopping.
The deputy told Olson to remove his hands from his pockets.
Olson was also directed toward the rear of his vehicle.
The complaint says Olson gave evasive answers during the encounter.
Olson said the tire was flat, but the deputy reported no tire was present.
When asked for a license, Olson allegedly said he did not need one.
Dispatch records showed Olson’s driving status was expired, according to the complaint.
Authorities also reported expired vehicle tabs and no valid insurance.
Loaded Rifle Found in Front Seat
The complaint says the deputy looked inside the vehicle during the stop.
A loaded rifle was visible on the front seat, according to the complaint.
The firearm had a magazine inserted and one round chambered.
The complaint describes the weapon as an assault rifle.
Investigators also reported finding four additional loaded magazines.
Each magazine held about 30 rounds, according to the complaint.
The deputy removed the firearm from the vehicle.
Olson is charged with violating Minnesota’s firearm transportation restrictions.
Arrest Leads to Obstruction Charge
The complaint says Olson was told the vehicle would be impounded.
Prosecutors allege Olson grabbed his keys and tried to reenter the vehicle.
Multiple officers then placed Olson under arrest.
The complaint alleges Olson pulled away while officers tried to secure him.
Prosecutors charged Olson with gross misdemeanor obstruction of legal process.
That charge carries up to 364 days in jail.
It also carries a possible fine of up to $3,000.
Olson also faces three misdemeanor charges.
They include unlawful firearm transportation, driving without a valid license, and unsafe vehicle equipment.
Each misdemeanor carries up to 90 days in jail and a possible $1,000 fine.
Readers can review Minnesota’s obstruction law and firearm transportation law.
They can also review the state’s driver’s license law and vehicle equipment law.
The charges are allegations. Olson is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.
I’m Adrian Cole reporting for TRF News.
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