Laporte Man Charged After Driving Without License

Cass County (trfnews.i234.me) — A Laporte man is facing a gross misdemeanor charge after authorities say he drove with a canceled license in Cass County.

According to a criminal complaint filed in Cass County District Court, Jesse James Poncelet, 48, of Laporte, is charged with driving after cancellation of driving privileges.

The charge is related to a June 6, 2026 incident in Walker, Minnesota. Court documents state Poncelet was allegedly operating a vehicle while his driving privileges were canceled as inimical to public safety.

Traffic Stop Leads To Charge

The complaint states Poncelet was seen driving a blue Ford Explorer on 5th Street in Walker.

Authorities say a traffic stop was conducted after identifying Poncelet as the driver.

According to the complaint, officials confirmed through records that Poncelet’s driver’s license status remained canceled.

The complaint alleges Poncelet had notice, or reason to know, that his driving privileges had been canceled.

Vehicle Items Noted In Complaint

The complaint also states that multiple empty syringes and butane torches were found inside the driver’s area of the vehicle.

Officials said the items are commonly associated with the use of controlled substances.

No illegal substances were reported found inside the vehicle.

Court Case Information

Poncelet is charged under Minnesota Statute 171.24.5, driving after cancellation, inimical to public safety.

The offense is listed as a gross misdemeanor.

A gross misdemeanor conviction in Minnesota can carry penalties of up to 364 days in jail, a fine of up to $3,000, or both.

All charges are allegations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.

Additional information about Minnesota court records can be found through the Minnesota Judicial Branch.

I’m Adrian Cole reporting for TRF News.