Polk County, MN (trfnews.i234.me) — On May 28, 2025, East Grand Forks Police Department officers found Ryan Wade Thompson (DOB: 10/07/1976) unconscious in his parked Ford F-150 at the East Side Express gas station. Upon awakening, Thompson exhibited signs of impairment, including bloodshot eyes and slurred speech. Officers observed a .22 caliber rifle and ammunition in the vehicle. Thompson, previously convicted of a fifth-degree controlled substance crime in 2018, is prohibited from possessing firearms under Minnesota law. A urine test indicated the presence of methamphetamine and THC. Thompson faces felony charges for firearm possession by a prohibited person and misdemeanor DWI.
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Case Facts:
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Defendant: Ryan Wade Thompson
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Date of Birth: 10/07/1976
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Address: 520 S 5th St., Grand Forks, ND 58201
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Charges:
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Count I: Felon in Possession of Firearm/Ammunition – Conviction for Crime of Violence
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Statute: Minnesota Statute 624.713.1(2)
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Maximum Sentence: Up to 15 years in prison, $30,000 fine, or both
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Count II: Fourth Degree Driving While Impaired – Any Amount Schedule I/II Controlled Substance
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Statute: Minnesota Statute 169A.20.1(7)
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Maximum Sentence: 90 days in jail, $1,000 fine, or both
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Under Minnesota law, individuals convicted of certain crimes of violence are prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition. Violating this prohibition is a felony offense, punishable by up to 15 years in prison and a $30,000 fine. Additionally, operating a motor vehicle with any amount of a Schedule I or II controlled substance, such as methamphetamine, in one’s system is a misdemeanor offense, carrying penalties of up to 90 days in jail and a $1,000 fine.
I’m Chris Harper reporting for TRF News.