Grand Forks: Lobby Outburst Ends in Meth Arrest

Grand Forks: Lobby Outburst Ends in Meth Arrest
Grand Forks: Lobby Outburst Ends in Meth Arrest

Grand Forks County (trfnews.i234.me) — A man is accused of causing a disturbance inside a county building lobby.

What happened

Court documents name the suspect as Christopher M. Johnston. The documents list him as homeless in Grand Forks.

Police were called at about 9:47 a.m. Wednesday. A caller reported chairs being thrown in the lobby. The caller said the man told people to leave.

Officers arrived and located Johnston inside the building. Documents say he wore very little clothing. They say he paced and shouted. They also note erratic movements. Police wrote that he seemed under the influence.

The lobby is used for public county business. The county lists offices and services on its website. Visitors can also find hours and locations online.

Christopher M. Johnston
Christopher M. Johnston

Arrest and evidence

Officers tried to arrest Johnston near the lobby area. Court papers say he fought the arrest. A struggle followed, according to the filing. Officers then took him into custody.

After the arrest, officers searched Johnston, the filing says. Police reported finding methamphetamine on him. The filing does not list the amount.

Charges filed

Johnston now faces a felony drug charge. He is charged with possession of methamphetamine. He also faces two misdemeanors. Those counts are preventing arrest and disorderly conduct.

The court filing did not list injuries. It also did not detail property damage. Police did not release more details in the documents. The case remains in the early stages. Johnston is presumed innocent in court.

What happens next

Future hearings will be scheduled in the district court. Public case records can be checked online by name. Records may update after court actions.

Anyone following the case can use the North Dakota Courts record search. That site can show filings and court dates. It may not show restricted records.

Community resources

Drug use can also raise safety risks in public spaces. Federal agencies warn that meth can cause severe health harm. You can read more from the DEA and NIDA.

Support is available for substance use issues. The SAMHSA National Helpline offers free, private help. The line runs 24 hours a day.

If you see a dangerous situation, leave the area first. Call 911 when it is safe. Do not try to physically stop a person.

I’m Chris Harper reporting for TRF News.

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