BRAINERD-BAXTER, Crow Wing County (trfnews.i234.me) — Old National Bank has filed a federal lawsuit against Bell Bank and eight former employees.
The lawsuit was filed Monday, Dec. 15, in the U.S. District Court for the District of Minnesota.
Old National says Bell Bank helped plan a coordinated exit from its Brainerd and Baxter branches.
Old National also claims confidential information was taken and later used.
Bell Bank said it disputes any wrongdoing.
What the lawsuit claims
Old National says six senior banking staff and two other workers resigned on Dec. 7 and Dec. 8.
Old National says the eight workers quickly took jobs with Bell Bank.
Old National says video showed boxes removed from the bank after resignations.
Old National says the Brainerd location lacked enough staff to operate.
Old National says a “closed” sign was posted at the Brainerd entrance.
Old National also says Baxter lobby operations were closed.
Old National alleges the former workers had access to sensitive bank information.
That includes customer contacts, account data, and pricing information.
It also includes credit reviews and employee performance details.
Old National claims that information was used to recruit customers and staff.
Claims listed in the filing
The lawsuit lists several claims under federal and state law.
- Misuse of trade secrets.
- Breach of confidentiality duties.
- Breach of fiduciary duties and related claims.
- Civil conspiracy and unfair competition.
- Interference with business and employment relationships.
- Unjust enrichment.
What Old National wants the court to do
Old National is seeking orders to stop the use of its confidential information.
It also wants limits on customer and employee solicitation.
Old National also wants the preservation of evidence related to the claims.
The bank is also seeking damages, including possible punitive damages.
Bell Bank response
Bell Bank said it disputes the allegations.
Bell Bank said it looks forward to explaining why the employees left.
Bell Bank also confirmed plans to open a Brainerd-Baxter branch.
Background
Old National is headquartered in Evansville, Indiana, and Chicago.
Old National expanded in Minnesota through the Bremer Bank merger.
The merger closed on May 1, 2025, according to public statements.
Bell Bank is headquartered in Fargo.
How to follow the case
Federal case records may be available through PACER.
PACER access and court information are posted by the U.S. District of Minnesota.
I’m Chris Harper reporting for TRF News.
Note: A lawsuit contains allegations. The defendants can contest them in court.
Helpful links: U.S. District of Minnesota PACER info | PACER court lookup (MNDC) | Old National Bank | Bell Bank