Bemidji Man Charged With DWI Test Refusal

Bemidji Man Charged With DWI Test Refusal

Bemidji, Minnesota (trfnews.i234.me) — A Bemidji man is facing a gross misdemeanor DWI charge after authorities say he refused to submit to a breath test following a reported driving incident.

According to a criminal complaint filed in Beltrami County District Court, Jeremy Eric Claw, 40, of Bemidji, is charged with third-degree DWI for refusing a chemical test.

The charge alleges Claw refused a required breath test after being suspected of driving while impaired. The complaint lists the offense date as June 27, 2026.

Reported Parking Lot Crash Leads To Investigation

Court documents state the incident began around 1:07 a.m. on June 27, 2026.

Authorities received a report of a vehicle spinning out in the Domino’s Pizza parking lot in Bemidji. The vehicle reportedly struck a curb before leaving the area.

The complaint states the vehicle was later located on U.S. Highway 2 East. Authorities reported the driver failed to signal while turning onto Division Street.

The vehicle also reportedly had expired registration dating back to January 2026.

Driver Accused Of Showing Signs Of Impairment

According to the complaint, Claw was identified as the driver during the traffic stop.

The document states Claw handed over his vehicle keys and made a comment indicating he understood why he was stopped.

Authorities reported smelling a strong odor of alcohol coming from the vehicle. The complaint also states Claw had bloodshot, watery eyes and slurred speech.

The complaint alleges Claw was not wearing a seatbelt and could not provide proof of insurance.

Mugshot of Jeremy Eric Claw

Breath Test Refusal Alleged

The complaint states field sobriety testing was conducted during the investigation.

Authorities reported observing multiple signs they believed showed impairment.

According to court documents, Claw requested to be taken to jail and declined additional testing.

The complaint states Claw refused a preliminary breath test and responded with the word “lawyer.”

Authorities then read Claw the Minnesota Breath Test Advisory. The complaint alleges he refused to provide a breath sample.

Court Case Pending

Claw faces a gross misdemeanor charge under Minnesota law. The maximum possible penalty listed is up to 364 days in jail, a $3,000 fine, or both.

A criminal charge is only an allegation. The defendant is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.

More information about Minnesota court cases is available through the Minnesota Judicial Branch.

Copyright 2026 TRF News. All rights reserved.

I’m Adrian Cole reporting for TRF News.