Mahnomen Casino Arrest Leads to Felony Drug Charge
Mahnomen (trfnews.i234.me) — John Alan Gordon faces a felony drug charge following an arrest at Shooting Star Casino.
Gordon, 36, is charged in Mahnomen County District Court.
The case is listed under court file number 44-CR-26-502.
He faces third-degree controlled substance possession and misdemeanor trespassing charges.
The allegations stem from an incident on August 31, 2026.
Casino Security Reports Trespass
Authorities were called to Shooting Star Casino at about 2:38 a.m.
The complaint says casino security wanted Gordon to leave the property or return to his room.
A deputy found Gordon sitting near the hotel entrance without shoes, according to the complaint.
The deputy reported Gordon had slurred speech and smelled of an alcoholic beverage.
Family members were given about 15 minutes to help Gordon leave the area.
The complaint says Gordon remained seated and said he had done nothing wrong.
Authorities arrested Gordon for alleged trespassing at about 2:53 a.m.
Search Allegedly Finds Cocaine
The complaint says a search was conducted after Gordon’s arrest.
Authorities reported finding a clear sandwich bag in Gordon’s front pocket.
The bag allegedly contained a white powder that appeared to be cocaine.
Investigators used a field test on the substance.
The complaint says the substance tested positive for cocaine.
The bag and its contents reportedly weighed 10.650 grams.
Gordon was then charged with third-degree controlled substance possession.
The charge involves possessing at least 10 grams of a qualifying narcotic drug.
Minnesota Statute 152.023 covers third-degree controlled substance crimes.
Felony Charge Carries Possible Prison Term
The felony count carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison.
It also carries a maximum fine of $250,000.
A court may impose both penalties after a conviction.
The trespass count carries up to 90 days in jail or a $1,000 fine.
The complaint also lists two previous felony fifth-degree drug convictions for Gordon.
Readers can search case 44-CR-26-502 through Minnesota Court Records Online.
The criminal complaint contains allegations and does not prove guilt.
Gordon is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.
I’m Adrian Cole reporting for TRF News.
Copyright 2026 TRF News. All rights reserved.
