Ricardo Mello, 38, was charged in Minnesota\u2019s Ninth Judicial District Court in Polk County.<\/p>\n
The charges include two first-degree controlled substance crimes. Four third-degree controlled substance charges were also filed.<\/p>\n
The allegations cover several reported drug transactions between May 1 and June 16, 2026.<\/p>\n
All charges remain allegations. Mello is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.<\/p>\n
Several Controlled Purchases Alleged<\/h2>\n
According to the criminal complaint, investigators worked with a confidential informant during several controlled purchases.<\/p>\n
The complaint alleges Mello sold cocaine during meetings in Crookston on May 4, May 6, May 14, and May 28.<\/p>\n
Investigators reported recovering white powder after each transaction. Field tests reportedly showed the substance contained cocaine.<\/p>\n
The alleged purchases ranged from $250 to $500. The amounts reportedly increased during later transactions.<\/p>\n
Authorities said some meetings happened at a Crookston residence. Other meetings happened inside or near vehicles.<\/p>\n
![\"Ricardo](\"https:\/\/trfnews.i234.me\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/MELLO-RICARDO.jpg\")
Ricardo Mello mugshot.\u00a0<\/em><\/p>\n<\/div>\nJune Transaction Led to Arrest<\/h2>\n
The complaint says another controlled purchase happened on June 16.<\/p>\n
Mello allegedly agreed to sell about one ounce of cocaine for $1,600.<\/p>\n
The informant later gave investigators a bag containing large white chunks.<\/p>\n
The substance reportedly tested positive for cocaine. It weighed about 30.2 grams with its packaging.<\/p>\n
Police arrested Mello later that day in Crookston.<\/p>\n
Investigators reported finding the full $1,600 in recorded purchase money inside Mello\u2019s wallet.<\/p>\n
Search Warrant and Possible Penalties<\/h2>\n
Authorities later searched Mello\u2019s residence under a court-approved warrant.<\/p>\n
The complaint says investigators found a blender with white powder, suspected marijuana, and a digital scale.<\/p>\n
Prosecutors also filed an order seeking Mello\u2019s detention.<\/p>\n
Each first-degree charge carries a possible 30-year prison sentence. Each also carries a possible $1 million fine.<\/p>\n
The third-degree charges each carry up to 20 years in prison. They also carry possible $250,000 fines.<\/p>\n
Prosecutors gave notice that they may seek a longer sentence if Mello is convicted.<\/p>\n
Case information may be reviewed through the Minnesota Court Records Online system<\/a>.<\/p>\n Minnesota controlled substance laws are available through the Minnesota Revisor of Statutes<\/a>.<\/p>\n