Thief River Falls Traffic Stop Leads to DWI Charge

THIEF RIVER FALLS, Minn. (trfnews.i234.me) — A July 4 traffic stop led to a third-degree DWI charge.

Michael Dennis Callais, 64, of Cottage Grove, was arrested after the stop. Police stopped his vehicle near Sanford Parkway and Highway 32.

Callais faces a third-degree driving while impaired charge involving test refusal. The charge is an accusation and does not prove guilt.

Complaint Describes Roadside Tests

According to the criminal complaint, police reported several possible signs of impairment. Callais was then asked to complete field sobriety tests.

The complaint says Callais did not pass those roadside tests. During a modified Romberg test, police reported eyelid tremors and teeth grinding.

Police then asked Callais whether he had recently used drugs. He first responded that he was “good,” according to the complaint.

After another question, Callais allegedly said he had used drugs several days earlier. He also reported drinking alcohol.

When asked about methamphetamine, Callais allegedly admitted using it several days before the traffic stop.

Michael Dennis Callais.

The complaint says police noticed scabbed areas on Callais’ arm. Investigators described those marks as a possible sign of recent drug use.

A torch-style lighter was also found inside the vehicle, according to the complaint. The filing does not state that drugs were recovered.

Callais initially agreed to provide a blood sample. Sanford emergency medical staff then arrived to assist with the requested draw.

He later changed his mind, the complaint alleges. Police again asked for either a blood or urine sample.

Callais allegedly refused both options. Minnesota law classifies certain chemical-test refusals as third-degree DWI offenses.

Readers can review the Minnesota third-degree DWI statute. Public case information may also appear through Minnesota Court Records Online.

No conviction was reported in the information provided. Callais is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.

Future hearings, court filings, or case updates could add more details. Court schedules and charges may also change.

I’m Adrian Cole, reporting for TRF News.