Detroit Lakes (trfnews.i234.me) — Clayton Richard Jones, 47, of Detroit Lakes, has been sentenced in Becker County District Court.
Jones was sentenced for felony DWI refusal to submit to testing.
According to court records, the case began on Oct. 29, 2025.
A Becker County deputy was on patrol that evening on Highway 34.
The deputy reported seeing a vehicle weave within its lane.
The vehicle also touched the fog line several times, according to court records.
The deputy stopped the vehicle and identified the driver as Jones.
Traffic Stop On Highway 34
During the stop, Jones was asked for his license and proof of insurance.
Jones stated that he did not have a valid driver’s license.
He said his license was canceled as inimical to public safety.
The deputy then asked Jones to step out of the vehicle.
Court records say Jones had glossy and slightly bloodshot eyes.
His pupils also appeared larger than normal, according to the complaint.
Testing Refusal Cited In Court Records
Jones refused to take field sobriety tests, according to court records.
He also declined to follow a search warrant for testing.
The warrant sought a blood or urine sample.
Jones told authorities he was a daily user.
He also stated he believed he would test positive, according to the complaint.
Court records show Jones had a prior felony first-degree DWI conviction in 2007.
Sentence Stayed For Five Years
On April 6, District Judge Michelle Lawson sentenced Jones to 36 months in prison.
The prison term was stayed for five years.
Jones was ordered to serve 78 days in jail.
He received credit for 78 days already served.
Jones was also fined $1,500, plus $190 in court fees.
The court ordered him not to drink alcohol or use drugs.
He must complete a comprehensive assessment and follow all recommendations.
Those recommendations include aftercare and a victim impact panel.
Jones must also complete the Becker County DWI Program.
He must follow all DWI Court rules, policies, directions, and orders.
Jones was also ordered to complete electronic alcohol monitoring each year.
The monitoring will last 30 days per year during probation.
Timing will be set by his probation agent.
The sentence was a downward departure from state guidelines.
The court found Jones particularly amenable to probation and treatment.
He also agreed to take part in Becker County DWI Court.
More information about Minnesota courts is available through the Minnesota Judicial Branch.
Local county information is available through Becker County.
I’m Chris Harper reporting for TRF News.
