Bemidji, Beltrami County (trfnews.i234.me) — A Bemidji traffic stop has led to two criminal charges against Gerald Lee Dudley, 61, of Redby, according to a complaint filed in Beltrami County District Court.
Dudley is charged with gross misdemeanor DWI and misdemeanor carrying a pistol while under the influence. The charges stem from a March 6, 2026, stop in Bemidji. Court records say the stop happened at about 10:55 p.m.
Charges Filed in Beltrami County
According to the complaint, Dudley faces a charge under Minnesota’s DWI law. He also faces a charge under Minnesota’s law on carrying a pistol while impaired.
The complaint says Dudley’s breath test result was 0.13. Prosecutors allege that level was above the legal limit. The court file lists one aggravating factor tied to the DWI count.
What the Complaint Says Happened
The complaint says an officer stopped a white pickup after seeing a traffic violation. The vehicle reportedly turned after signaling too late near an intersection.
After the stop, the officer reported smelling alcohol from the vehicle. The complaint also says Dudley showed glassy eyes and slow behavior. A beer bottle was seen near the center console. An opened box of beer was also found on the floor.
Dudley told the officer he had consumed two beers earlier that night, according to the complaint. After he got out of the truck, the complaint says an open and full beer was found in the driver’s door.
The complaint also says Dudley told the officer he was taking several medications. Two of those medicines were described as antidepressants.
During field sobriety testing, the complaint says Dudley showed signs of impairment. The officer also reported balance problems and trouble following simple directions.
A preliminary breath test registered 0.133, according to the complaint. After Dudley was arrested, officers searched the truck. The complaint says they found open beer containers, a box of .22 ammunition, and a loaded FN 5.7x28mm pistol.
The complaint says Dudley admitted the pistol was his. He also allegedly said he carries it everywhere he goes.
Prior Convictions Listed
The complaint lists a 2021 third-degree DWI conviction in Beltrami County. It also lists a 2015 conviction for an uncased firearm in a motor vehicle.
All charges remain allegations unless proved in court. Case information can be tracked through the Minnesota Judicial Branch.
I’m Chris Harper reporting for TRF News.
