Beltrami County (trfnews.i234.me) — A Red Lake woman faces a felony theft charge. The case stems from an alleged incident at the Bemidji Walmart.
Court records say the incident happened around 12:26 p.m. on Sept. 9, 2024. The report lists the location as Walmart, 2025 Paul Bunyan Drive NW, in Bemidji.
What investigators allege
Store loss prevention staff reported two women working together at a self-checkout station. Records say one item was scanned. Other items were bagged without being scanned.
Loss prevention staff tried to stop the pair, according to the complaint. The women allegedly ran through the parking lot. Records say they later returned and cooperated inside the store.
The complaint identifies the women as Desiree Dawn Downwind, 35, of Red Lake, and Mandy Mae Sumner, 35. Records list Downwind’s mailing address as a post office box in Red Lake.
This court complaint names Downwind as the defendant. It also describes Sumner as the second suspect.
Records say Downwind first gave a false name and date of birth. The complaint says she later gave her correct identity and date of birth.
Records say Downwind admitted she was caught taking items that were not paid for. The complaint says Sumner helped bag unpaid items. The items were recovered, according to the report.
Charge and case numbers
Downwind is charged in Beltrami County District Court with felony theft. The count is listed as aiding and abetting theft involving movable property without consent.
The complaint lists a total attempted loss of $1,433.91. Prosecutors cite Minnesota Statutes 609.52 and 609.05.
The complaint lists a maximum penalty of up to five years in prison. It also lists a possible fine up to $10,000. Sentences can vary by case facts.
The court filing shows Prosecutor File No. 0040086212 and Court File No. 04-CR-25-195.
What happens next
Charging documents are allegations. A defendant is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.
Readers can look up public case information through Minnesota Court Records Online. Beltrami County court location details are available on the Minnesota Judicial Branch website.
I’m Chris Harper reporting for TRF News.
