Beltrami County, MN – Christopher Steinhauer, 6’3″ tall and weighing 245 pounds, was arrested on February 24, 2025, and booked into Beltrami County Jail on felony drug possession and multiple DWI-related charges.
According to court records, Steinhauer is facing the following charges:
- Minnesota Statute 152.025.2(1) – 5th-degree controlled substance possession, which involves possession of Schedule I-IV drugs or drug paraphernalia with residual amounts (excluding cannabis/hemp). This charge is classified as a felony (F).
- Minnesota Statute 169A.20.1(2) – Driving while impaired (DWI) under the influence of a controlled substance, a gross misdemeanor (GM).
- Minnesota Statute 169A.25.1(a) – Second-degree DWI with two or more aggravating factors, a gross misdemeanor (GM). Aggravating factors may include a high blood alcohol concentration (BAC), prior DWI offenses, or a child in the vehicle.
Legal Implications of the Charges
- 5th-degree controlled substance possession (Felony) can lead to prison time, probation, fines, and a permanent criminal record if convicted.
- Second-degree DWI (Gross Misdemeanor) carries harsher penalties than lower-level DWI offenses, including longer license revocation periods, required alcohol treatment, and possible jail time.
- If convicted, Steinhauer could face probation, mandatory drug treatment programs, ignition interlock device installation, or vehicle forfeiture in severe cases.
Current Case Status
Steinhauer remains in custody with no bail set ($0.00) at Beltrami County Jail, and his court date in District Court is pending. Further details regarding his court proceedings and potential sentencing will be released as his case develops.
Minnesota law enforcement takes drug possession and impaired driving cases seriously, urging individuals to seek legal counsel and comply with laws to avoid severe penalties.
For continued updates on crime and public safety in Beltrami County, stay informed with TRF News.
I’m Chris Harper, reporting for trfnews.i234.me