Fergus Falls, Otter Tail County (trfnews.i234.me) — A Waconia man is charged after alleged threats. The case is tied to an ICE protest in Fergus Falls.
Court records say Brandon Michael DeWolf contacted an ICE protester by phone and text. The complaint describes the messages as threatening and abusive.
The complaint does not say if DeWolf knew the protester. It also does not say how he found the person.
The case was filed in Otter Tail County District Court. DeWolf faces a felony threat of violence charge. He also faces a misdemeanor disorderly conduct charge.
What court documents allege
The criminal complaint says the contacts came through several phone calls. It also describes several text messages.
Some messages praised ICE and law enforcement. Other messages included racial insults and threats, according to the complaint.
In one message, the sender said he would “look you up” and “find you,” the complaint says. The complaint also says the sender threatened harm.
The complaint says the message included a racial slur. We are not repeating that word.
The message also referenced “Renee” and “Alex,” the complaint says. It claimed the protester’s views had led to deaths. The complaint does not explain those claims.
What the charges mean
Minnesota law allows felony charges for threats meant to terrorize another person. The threats of violence statute is posted by the Minnesota Revisor of Statutes.
Disorderly conduct is a misdemeanor in Minnesota. The disorderly conduct statute is also posted by the Minnesota Revisor of Statutes.
How to follow the case
A complaint is not proof of guilt. DeWolf is presumed innocent unless convicted in court.
For public case information, readers can use Minnesota Court Records Online (MCRO). It is run by the Minnesota Judicial Branch.
ICE remains a flashpoint in many communities. ICE is part of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.
You can read more on the official ICE website. You can also read the DHS overview of Immigration and Customs Enforcement.
I’m Chris Harper reporting for TRF News.