Detroit Lakes Man Faces DWI, Weapon Charges

Detroit Lakes (trfnews.i234.me) — Cody Allen James faces three charges following an August traffic stop in Detroit Lakes.

Prosecutors charged James with third-degree driving while impaired by a controlled substance.

He also faces charges for possessing a dangerous weapon and driving after revocation.

The alleged offenses happened on August 8, 2026, according to a criminal complaint.

Traffic Stop on West Lake Drive

The complaint says law enforcement saw a Buick traveling on West Lake Drive.

The vehicle passed near the intersection of Lake Avenue and West Lake Drive.

Authorities believed the driver did not have a valid license.

A records check reportedly confirmed the driver lacked valid driving privileges.

Police stopped the Buick and identified Cody Allen James as the driver.

The complaint says James appeared jumpy and fidgety during the traffic stop.

Authorities also reported observing eyelid tremors and other possible signs of impairment.

James agreed to complete field sobriety testing, according to court records.

Investigators said the testing raised concerns that he was under the influence of a controlled substance.

Authorities later obtained a warrant for a blood sample.

The complaint says James provided the requested blood sample.

No laboratory result was included in the complaint information provided to TRF News.

Prosecutors allege one aggravating factor was present during the DWI offense.

The third-degree DWI charge is a gross misdemeanor.

It carries a maximum sentence of one year and a $3,000 fine.

The charge is filed under Minnesota Statute 169A.26.

The complaint also says authorities found a pair of brass knuckles in James’ possession.

Prosecutors filed a misdemeanor dangerous weapon charge based on that discovery.

That count carries up to 90 days in jail and a $1,000 fine.

Minnesota’s dangerous weapons law is available under Minnesota Statute 609.66.

Authorities also reported that James’ driving privileges were revoked.

The complaint says the revocation followed an implied consent violation in 2025.

Prosecutors allege James drove despite knowing or having reason to know about the revocation.

That misdemeanor carries up to 90 days in jail and a $1,000 fine.

The law is available under Minnesota Statute 171.24.

The case is filed under court number 03-CR-26-1592.

Public records can be searched through Minnesota Court Records Online.

The complaint contains allegations and does not establish guilt.

James is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.

I’m Adrian Cole reporting for TRF News.