According to court records, 42-year-old Alejandro Ramirez was stopped just after 1 a.m. on August 30, 2025. A Minnesota State Patrol trooper reported Ramirez was driving 41 miles per hour on North Broadway Street, above the posted speed limit.
When pulled over, Ramirez allegedly showed signs of impairment, including bloodshot eyes, slurred speech, and the odor of alcohol. Field sobriety tests were conducted, and reports say Ramirez struggled to follow instructions, lost balance, and could not complete the tests correctly.
Ramirez refused to provide a preliminary breath sample and later declined a formal breath test after being read Minnesota’s advisory. He was then placed under arrest and transported to the Northwest Regional Correctional Center in Crookston.
During a search of the vehicle, officers discovered an open can of Budweiser in the back seat. The can was reportedly half full and still cold to the touch.
In addition to the gross misdemeanor DWI refusal charge, Ramirez is also charged with driving without a valid license and possessing an open bottle in a vehicle. Both carry misdemeanor penalties of up to 90 days in jail and a $1,000 fine. The DWI refusal charge carries a penalty of up to 364 days in jail and a $3,000 fine.
Ramirez is scheduled to make his first appearance in Polk County District Court. If convicted, he could face significant jail time and fines.
For more information about Minnesota’s impaired driving laws, visit the Minnesota Department of Public Safety.
I’m Chris Harper reporting for TRF News.
