Becker County (trfnews.i234.me) A Detroit Lakes area traffic stop has led to a gross misdemeanor charge against James William Helgeson, 55, of Rothsay.
Charge Filed In Becker County
According to a complaint filed in the Minnesota District Court, Helgeson is charged with driving after cancellation as inimical to public safety.
The charge stems from a traffic stop on February 18, 2026, in Becker County. Court records say the offense is a gross misdemeanor. The listed maximum penalty is 364 days in jail, a $3,000 fine, or both.
What Led To The Stop
The complaint says a deputy was driving east on U.S. Highway 10 when the deputy noticed a vehicle ahead with all brake lights illuminated.
As the vehicle continued through Detroit Lakes, the deputy saw it change speed several times. The brake lights also stayed on. The deputy then stopped the vehicle because the brake lights appeared to be malfunctioning.
During the stop, the driver was identified as James William Helgeson. The complaint says he provided a passport for identification. Helgeson reportedly told the deputy that his foot had not been on the brake pedal while driving.
License Status Cited In Complaint
After checking his record, the deputy learned that Helgeson’s driving status was canceled as inimical to public safety, according to the complaint.
Court records say Helgeson was told about that status during the stop. The complaint also states that he said he had been arrested many times before for driving after cancellation as inimical to public safety.
Under Minnesota Statute 171.24, it is illegal to drive when a person’s license has been canceled under that status.
Case Information
The case was filed in Becker County District Court under court file number 03-CR-26-432. As with all criminal cases, a charge is only an accusation. The defendant is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.
I’m Chris Harper reporting for TRF News.