Bemidji, Beltrami County (trfnews.i234.me) — A Bemidji man now faces a felony charge. Police say it involves offender registration rules.
What investigators say
Thomas Edward Strong, 36, of Bemidji, is charged with one felony count of predatory offender registration violations. The charge alleges he knowingly failed to meet a registration requirement.
According to the complaint, Strong told authorities he was living in a tent on the east side of Lake Bemidji. He said he set the tent late each night. He said he packed it up by early morning.
Investigators used drones with heat-detection sensors to check the area he named. They reported no heat signatures. They also reported no clear signs of a campsite.
Investigators also reviewed Strong’s EBT transaction history, the complaint says. Records showed transactions in Minneapolis and St. Paul. They did not show EBT use in Bemidji during November and December 2025.
Officers also noted his appearance during weekly check-ins, the complaint says. They said he arrived clean-shaven and well-dressed. They said he appeared clean and dry. They said the weather included wind chills near 50 below zero.
Investigators contacted local shelters and churches, the complaint says. Staff told police Strong was not listed in their logs. Staff said he had not stayed there as claimed.
Arrest and court action
Strong was arrested on January 27, 2026. Authorities say he was taken into custody when he arrived for a scheduled check-in.
A judge set bail at $10,000 with conditions, or $20,000 without conditions. The court also ordered him to remain law-abiding and attend future hearings.
Records in the complaint note a prior conviction for failing to register. The alleged offense date is January 27, 2026. The case was filed on January 29, 2026.
Background on the registration law
Minnesota’s predatory offender registration law is in Minnesota Statute 243.166. The statute lists reporting duties and timing rules.
State officials also provide general registry information through the Minnesota Predatory Offender Registry.
Details on EBT cards are available through Minnesota’s EBT program page.
Public court listings may be found on Minnesota Court Records Online. Access depends on court rules.
Strong is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.
I’m Chris Harper reporting for TRF News.
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