Crookston Man Faces Six Felony Drug Charges

CROOKSTON (trfnews.i234.me) — A Crookston man faces six felony drug-sale charges following a multi-week police investigation.

Ricardo Mello, 38, was charged in Minnesota’s Ninth Judicial District Court in Polk County.

The charges include two first-degree controlled substance crimes. Four third-degree controlled substance charges were also filed.

The allegations cover several reported drug transactions between May 1 and June 16, 2026.

All charges remain allegations. Mello is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.

Several Controlled Purchases Alleged

According to the criminal complaint, investigators worked with a confidential informant during several controlled purchases.

The complaint alleges Mello sold cocaine during meetings in Crookston on May 4, May 6, May 14, and May 28.

Investigators reported recovering white powder after each transaction. Field tests reportedly showed the substance contained cocaine.

The alleged purchases ranged from $250 to $500. The amounts reportedly increased during later transactions.

Authorities said some meetings happened at a Crookston residence. Other meetings happened inside or near vehicles.

Ricardo Mello mugshot.

The complaint says another controlled purchase happened on June 16.

Mello allegedly agreed to sell about one ounce of cocaine for $1,600.

The informant later gave investigators a bag containing large white chunks.

The substance reportedly tested positive for cocaine. It weighed about 30.2 grams with its packaging.

Police arrested Mello later that day in Crookston.

Investigators reported finding the full $1,600 in recorded purchase money inside Mello’s wallet.

Authorities later searched Mello’s residence under a court-approved warrant.

The complaint says investigators found a blender with white powder, suspected marijuana, and a digital scale.

Prosecutors also filed an order seeking Mello’s detention.

Each first-degree charge carries a possible 30-year prison sentence. Each also carries a possible $1 million fine.

The third-degree charges each carry up to 20 years in prison. They also carry possible $250,000 fines.

Prosecutors gave notice that they may seek a longer sentence if Mello is convicted.

Case information may be reviewed through the Minnesota Court Records Online system.

Minnesota controlled substance laws are available through the Minnesota Revisor of Statutes.

I’m Adrian Cole reporting for TRF News.