Becker County ( trfnews.i234.me ) – A Mahnomen man has been charged in Becker County District Court following a late-night traffic stop. Prosecutors filed felony and gross misdemeanor charges after deputies discovered drugs and a canceled license.
According to court documents, deputies stopped a vehicle on County Highway 34 on September 14 for a brake light violation. The driver, identified as 44-year-old Chris Angus Clark, showed signs of impairment. Deputies noted bloodshot eyes, small pupils, and unsteady balance.
Clark refused field sobriety tests but admitted he had used methamphetamine the day before. A breath test showed no alcohol. Deputies later obtained a search warrant for a blood sample. During the stop, a passenger was arrested on an unrelated warrant. Deputies also found a vial containing nearly seven grams of fentanyl inside the vehicle.
Records show Clark’s driver’s license was canceled as inimical to public safety. He has three prior impaired driving cases within the last decade. That history elevates this new charge to a felony. Prosecutors also filed a gross misdemeanor charge for driving after license cancellation.
Clark’s bail was set at $100,000 without conditions or $50,000 with strict conditions. Those conditions include no drug or alcohol use, random testing, and monitoring through the ignition interlock program. Court filings also require electronic alcohol monitoring if released on bond.
Clark is scheduled to appear in court on October 6. He will face Judge Michelle W. Lawson in Becker County District Court. The outcome of his blood test will play a key role in the case.
This arrest highlights ongoing concerns about impaired driving and fentanyl in Minnesota. Officials continue to report an increase in fentanyl-related cases across the state. For more on DWI laws and penalties in Minnesota, visit the Minnesota Department of Public Safety.
I’m Chris Harper reporting for TRF News.
