Mahnomen Traffic Stop Leads To Meth Charge
Mahnomen County (trfnews.i234.me) — A Fosston man is facing a first-degree drug charge after a traffic stop in Mahnomen County.
Wayne Bradley Schindler, 59, of Fosston, is charged in Mahnomen County District Court.
The charge is first-degree drug possession involving 50 grams or more of cocaine or methamphetamine.
The case was filed under court file number 44-CR-26-282.
The alleged offense happened on or about May 18, 2026.
According to the criminal complaint, a deputy stopped a red Jeep on U.S. Highway 59.
The complaint says radar showed the Jeep traveling 72 mph in a 60 mph zone.
Deputy Reports Finding Light Bulb
Court documents say the vehicle was slow to stop.
Schindler identified himself as the driver, according to the complaint.
The deputy reported seeing signs of nervous behavior during the stop.
The complaint says a light bulb was visible between Schindler’s legs.
Authorities alleged the item appeared altered and showed burn marks.
Schindler allegedly gave different explanations for the light bulb.
When asked to exit the vehicle, the light bulb fell to the floor.
The complaint says Schindler then tried to step on it.
Wayne Bradley Schindler
Complaint Alleges Meth Found In Patrol Vehicle
Schindler was placed in handcuffs while the vehicle was searched.
After the search, the deputy removed Schindler from the patrol vehicle.
The complaint says Schindler’s right shoe was partly off his foot.
A large, clear plastic bag was found in the prisoner area, according to documents.
The bag allegedly contained two smaller clear bags with a white substance.
Authorities said the substance later field-tested positive for methamphetamine.
The complaint says the bags were taken to the Mahnomen County Sheriff’s Office.
One bag weighed 29.3 grams with packaging.
The second bag weighed 28.3 grams with packaging.
Video Cited In Court Filing
Investigators later reviewed video from the rear prisoner compartment.
The complaint alleges Schindler moved his hands behind his back.
It also alleges he reached toward the front of his pants.
Court papers say he removed a plastic package and dropped it on the floor.
The complaint alleges he then used his foot to push and hide the package.
The charge carries a maximum sentence of 30 years in prison.
It also carries a possible $1,000,000 fine, or both.
The charge is filed under Minnesota Statute 152.021.
More court information can be found through the Minnesota Judicial Branch.
Schindler is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.
I’m Chris Harper reporting for TRF News.