Hawley: Larson Faces Kidnapping, Strangulation Charges
HAWLEY, Minn. (trfnews.i234.me) — Preston Thomas Larson faces six charges after an alleged Sept. 2 incident involving a teenage girl.
Larson, 18, is charged in Clay County District Court file 14-CR-26-3193.
The charges include two felony kidnapping counts and felony domestic assault by strangulation.
He also faces three additional domestic-related charges.
Teen Reports Being Forced Into SUV
The complaint says the 17-year-old was walking in Hawley when Larson drove up in a blue SUV.
Larson allegedly told her to get inside, but she refused.
Prosecutors say Larson then got out and forced her into the vehicle.
The teen allegedly fought back while trying to avoid entering the SUV.
Larson then drove about 10 minutes to Buffalo River State Park, according to the complaint.
The teen allegedly got out and told Larson to take her home.
Prosecutors say Larson grabbed her and forced her back into the SUV.
No police officer names are included in this report.
Preston Thomas Larson | Public image
Strangulation Alleged at Second Location
The complaint says Larson drove to another nearby location after leaving the park.
The teen allegedly continued trying to leave and fought against Larson.
Prosecutors say Larson placed both hands around her neck during the struggle.
The complaint alleges the pressure interfered with her normal breathing.
Police later reported seeing red marks around the teen’s neck.
Larson allegedly took the teen’s phone during the incident.
Prosecutors say this prevented her from calling for help or sharing her location.
The complaint says Larson eventually returned the teen to school around 10 a.m.
Witness Called Police
A witness also reported seeing the teen inside the blue SUV.
The witness believed the teen appeared desperate for help, according to the complaint.
The witness became concerned enough to contact law enforcement.
Police later spoke with Larson about the allegations.
The complaint says Larson admitted forcing the teen back into his vehicle at the park.
He also allegedly admitted placing a hand around her neck.
Larson denied forcing her into the SUV during the first encounter.
Six Charges Filed
The kidnapping counts cite Minnesota Statute 609.25.
Each count carries up to 20 years in prison and a $35,000 fine.
The strangulation charge cites Minnesota Statute 609.2247.
That felony carries up to three years and a $5,000 fine.
Larson also faces interference with an emergency call.
That gross misdemeanor is covered by Minnesota Statute 609.78.
Two misdemeanor domestic assault counts were also filed.
Those charges cite Minnesota Statute 609.2242.
Charges Remain Allegations
The criminal complaint contains allegations that have not been proven in court.
Larson is presumed innocent unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
Current custody information is available through the Clay County inmate roster.
Public court records are available through the Minnesota Judicial Branch.
I’m Adrian Cole reporting for TRF News.
Copyright 2026 TRF News. All rights reserved.