Bemidji (trfnews.i234.me) — A Bemidji-area teen is facing felony and misdemeanor charges after a fight at Bemidji High School, according to a criminal complaint.
Demario Rico Gayden, 18, of Puposky, is charged in Beltrami County District Court. He faces one felony count of possessing a dangerous weapon on school property. He also faces one misdemeanor assault charge.
Fight Reported at School
According to the complaint, authorities were called to Bemidji High School at about 9:45 a.m. on Tuesday, March 24. The report said multiple students were involved in a fight.
School staff told responding deputies that Gayden had assaulted several people. Authorities later found him in a school bathroom and took him into custody.
The complaint says deputies searched a backpack Gayden was wearing after his arrest. Investigators said they found a black folding knife inside. The blade was reported to be about six inches long. The total length was listed at more than 12 inches.
Two Staff Members Sought Care
Two school staff members later sought medical care after the incident, the complaint states. One staff member went to Sanford Bemidji Medical Center for X-rays after being punched in the face. The condition of both staff members was not immediately released.
Authorities say the charges are based on what was reported during the school incident and what was found after the arrest. The case remains in the court process. A charge is only an accusation. It is not a conviction.
Charges and Next Court Date
The felony charge falls under Minnesota Statute 609.66, which covers dangerous weapons on school property. The misdemeanor assault charge falls under Minnesota Statute 609.224.
According to the complaint, the felony charge carries a possible sentence of up to five years in prison, a $10,000 fine, or both. The misdemeanor charge carries a possible sentence of up to 90 days in jail, a $1,000 fine, or both.
Gayden posted $200 cash bail. His next court date is scheduled for April 6 in Beltrami County District Court. Case information may also appear through Minnesota Court Records Online.
I’m Chris Harper reporting for TRF News.