Mahnomen County (https://trfnews.i234.me) – A 21-year-old Naytahwaush man is facing multiple misdemeanor charges after an early morning incident in which he damaged county property, disturbed a law enforcement K9 unit, and was found in possession of a prescription pill without authorization.
According to a criminal complaint, around 5:08 a.m. on April 10, 2025, Deputy Zach Saunders observed Cory Gene Burnette on surveillance video at the Mahnomen County Sheriff’s Office, attempting to open the main entrance doors. Burnette then walked to the law enforcement entrance and began hitting the deputy’s patrol vehicle, even attempting to open the driver’s door. He then pounded on the rear of the vehicle, where the deputy’s K9 partner was housed.
Due to Burnette’s severe intoxication, the deputy could not understand what he wanted and initially directed him to walk home, which is about a block away. However, Burnette soon returned and pulled down a metal county sign near the building’s entrance, causing damage.
Deputy Saunders arrested Burnette and, during a search, found a white pill marked “D-24”, later identified as gabapentin, a prescription-only legend drug. Burnette had no lawful prescription for it.
He has now been charged in Mahnomen County District Court with:
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Count I: Unlawful Possession of Legend Drug (Misdemeanor)
– Maximum penalty: 90 days in jail, $1,000 fine, or both -
Count II: Fourth-Degree Damage to Property – Less Than $500 (Misdemeanor)
– Maximum penalty: 90 days in jail, $1,000 fine, or both
A summons has been issued for Burnette’s court appearance.
I’m Chris Harper reporting for TRF News.