Tenstrike Man Charged in Ignition Interlock Case

Tenstrike Man Charged in Ignition Interlock Case

TENSTRIKE, Minn. (trfnews.i234.me) — A Tenstrike man faces two charges after a February traffic stop on Highway 71.

Matthew William Ferrell, 39, was charged in Beltrami County District Court. The case includes one gross misdemeanor and one misdemeanor.

Court records allege Ferrell drove without a required ignition interlock device. He also allegedly lacked proof of active vehicle insurance.

Highway 71 Traffic Stop

The complaint says a Minnesota State Patrol trooper stopped Ferrell around 10:30 p.m. on February 25.

The vehicle was allegedly traveling 70 mph in a posted 60 mph zone.

The trooper identified Ferrell as the driver during the roadside stop. A license check reportedly showed an ignition interlock restriction.

An ignition interlock device tests a driver’s breath before allowing a vehicle to start. Minnesota requires these devices for some restricted drivers.

Two Charges Filed

According to the complaint, Ferrell admitted the vehicle lacked the required device.

He reportedly said he expected to have the device installed within the next week.

Ferrell was also unable to provide proof of insurance, the complaint states.

The first charge alleges a violation of Minnesota Statute 171.09.

The gross misdemeanor carries a maximum sentence of 364 days in jail. It also carries a possible $3,000 fine.

The second charge involves Minnesota Statute 169.791.

That law requires drivers to provide proof of insurance when requested.

The misdemeanor carries up to 90 days in jail. It also carries a possible $1,000 fine.

Case Filed in District Court

The case was filed in Minnesota’s Ninth Judicial District. Court documents show that a summons was issued.

Public court information is available through the Minnesota Judicial Branch.

The charges are allegations. Ferrell is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.

I’m Chris Harper reporting for TRF News.