Pennington County, MN (trfnews.i234.me) – On December 6, law enforcement conducted a traffic stop in the 2000 block of Greenwood Street East. The driver, identified as 29-year-old Nicholas Hagman from Thief River Falls, was arrested and charged with felony fifth-degree controlled substance crime—citing a previous conviction—and misdemeanor driving after revocation.
During transport, Hagman allegedly became agitated, screaming and thrashing in the back of the squad vehicle. The arresting officer recognized Hagman from a prior encounter the previous night, where Hagman had received a verbal warning for driving without a valid license. Observing signs indicative of controlled substance impairment, the officer inquired about Hagman’s recent methamphetamine use. Hagman reportedly admitted to past meth use but claimed to be currently clean and consented to a vehicle search.
The search yielded a digital scale with a substance that tested presumptively positive for methamphetamine. Additionally, under the driver’s seat, the officer found a micro baggie containing two Alprazolam pills and a glass pipe. The felony charge is primarily based on the possession of these pills.
In Minnesota, Alprazolam is classified as a Schedule IV controlled substance. Possession without a valid prescription can lead to severe legal consequences, including felony charges, especially for individuals with prior convictions. Fifth-degree controlled substance crimes encompass the possession of substances like Alprazolam without authorization. Penalties can range from gross misdemeanors to felonies, depending on the specifics of the offense and the individual’s criminal history.
Driving after revocation is a misdemeanor offense in Minnesota. It occurs when an individual operates a motor vehicle despite having their driver’s license revoked. Penalties may include fines and potential jail time, with increased severity for repeat offenders.
I’m Chris Harper, reporting for trfnews.i234.me