Grafton, North Dakota (trfnews.i234.me) – A dangerous police chase in March 2024 led to a massive meth bust and a 20-year prison sentence for a Grafton man.
39-year-old Justin Marcel Peterson was sentenced Friday, February 21, to 20 years in prison, though he will serve 10 years before being placed on supervised probation for three years. If he violates any terms of his release, he will be required to serve the remaining 10 years behind bars.
The High-Speed Chase & Dramatic Arrest
The incident began after 1 a.m. on March 19, 2024, when Grand Forks police pulled Peterson over for a missing rear license plate light. Officers noted that Peterson appeared lethargic, and his vehicle smelled of marijuana. Before officers could conduct sobriety tests or search his vehicle, Peterson sped off, initiating a dangerous pursuit.
The Chase Turned Dangerous
Peterson lost control of his car, striking a curb and slamming into the University Laundromat on University Avenue. A witness leaving the laundromat at the time said he thought he was going to die. After crashing into the building, Peterson spun out into a telephone pole but regained control and continued to flee. He eventually abandoned his vehicle and tried to escape on foot, only to fall into the Red River while heading toward East Grand Forks.
What Police Found:
Inside Peterson’s vehicle:
$720 in cash 36.8 grams of marijuana Drug paraphernalia
Near the river where he fell: A backpack containing 179.7 grams of meth (split into six separate bags) A digital scale Additional empty baggies
On Peterson’s person: An additional $1,240 in cash
At Altru Hospital, Peterson refused to submit to a drug test.
Peterson’s Convictions & Sentencing
Peterson pleaded guilty to seven charges, including: Class A Felony – Possession of at least 50 grams of meth with intent to deliver Class C Felony – Possession of marijuana with intent to deliver Class C Felony – Reckless endangerment showing extreme indifference Class A Misdemeanor – Fleeing a police officer Class B Misdemeanor – Driving under the influence of alcohol and drugs Class B Misdemeanor – Refusing to submit to a drug test Class B Misdemeanor – Refusal to halt
Due to his past criminal history, Peterson was deemed a “habitual offender,” allowing for enhanced penalties.
As of sentencing, Peterson had already served 215 days in jail, credited toward his 10-year prison term.
This case highlights the ongoing battle against drug trafficking in North Dakota, with law enforcement cracking down on habitual offenders.
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I’m Chris Harper, reporting for TRF News