Published: September 12, 2026.

FARMINGTON, MINNESOTA - On August 25, 2026 Dakota County Commissioner District 1 candidates Mike Slavik and Nathan Ryan faced off Tuesday night at a League of Women Voters forum in Farmington, trading sharp differences on taxes, road safety, and development near the Vermillion River.

The nonpartisan forum, hosted by League of Women Voters Dakota County and recorded by Apple Valley–Farmington–Rosemount Community TV, featured the two candidates seeking to represent Farmington and surrounding townships on the County Board. Election Day is November 3, 2026.

Slavik, the incumbent and a former Hastings City Council member, is seeking another term. Ryan is challenging him, saying the seat has gone unopposed for too long and that too few residents know what a county commissioner does.

Budget and levy pressure

Both candidates described 2026 as a difficult budget year, but they disagreed on how the county got there and what to do next.

Ryan argued Dakota County paid a price for years of keeping taxes among the lowest in the metro without incremental increases, and said core services such as the sheriff’s office, jail, county attorney, and roads must be protected. He also said commissioners should more aggressively fight unfunded state mandates, including by banding with other counties, arguing a legal fight could cost less than absorbing millions in new costs.

Slavik said large growing counties across Minnesota are talking about average levy increases around 9%, even where boards raised taxes gradually each year. He pointed to state and federal program shifts as a major driver, including long-term support and waiver services he said will add about $5.2 million starting in 2027, nearly 7% of next year’s levy tied to mandates and shifts.

County budget figures cited during the forum put overall spending near $430 million to just under $500 million, with roughly $185 million coming from property taxes and the rest from state, federal, and fee revenue.

Slavik, who chairs the Dakota County 911 board, said mandated social safety-net services and public safety are his top priorities to protect. Ryan agreed sheriff and social services funding are essential, especially in townships and smaller cities in District 1 that rely on the county for patrol.

Highway 50 safety in Farmington

The candidates agreed the top transportation priority in the district is Highway 50 through Farmington.

Ryan pointed to the intersection near McDonald’s, where he said a 13-year-old boy was struck and killed. He called for better lighting, a lower speed limit, saying the stretch toward Pilot Knob should be closer to 40–45 mph instead of 55, in addition to stronger enforcement and clearer pedestrian markings.

Slavik said he agrees Highway 50 is the district’s top road priority, but framed it as a full corridor issue, not only one intersection. He said Farmington and Dakota County staff are working to hire a consultant for a study and noted other recent safety and reconstruction work, including near Boeckman Middle School on Denmark Trail. He also said the county has roughly tripled road spending over the past decade and now relies more on state transportation tools than property taxes for major projects.

Data centers, farmland, and the Vermillion River

Development pressure became one of the clearest divides.

Ryan criticized county leaders over data center zoning and said commissioners failed residents by not taking a harder line, including on a Farmington proposal he said sits near the West Branch of the Vermillion River and an existing dump. He said trout habitat and wetlands are at risk and pledged to be a “second level of protection” for voters. He also called for helping next-generation farmers stay on the land so farmland is not lost to development.

Slavik said planning and zoning authority largely sits with cities and townships under Minnesota law, not the County Board, except for floodplain and shoreland. He said commissioners can partner and advise, but cannot simply reclaim zoning once it has been transferred. He pointed to farmland preservation work dating to a 2002 voter-approved referendum and water-quality investments through the Vermillion River Watershed, which Dakota County shares with Scott County.

Other issues locals asked about

- Elections: Slavik said Dakota County rebuilt its elections operation after problems about a decade ago, growing staff from two to eight and updating equipment. Ryan said elections are free and fair and favored more training for election officials.

- Immigration: Ryan said he supports legal immigration and opposes county services for people who entered the country illegally. Slavik said immigration enforcement is primarily federal and that the board’s role is to “stay in its lane” while following the law and working with the sheriff’s office.

- Human services: Both flagged mental health and senior housing as growing gaps. Slavik said Minnesota lacks enough mental-health beds and that some people are being sent out of state. Ryan said the state should revisit hospital and mental-health facility limits and not push all costs onto counties.

- Access to government: Ryan said he would push stronger social media outreach and consider moving daytime board meetings so more residents can attend. Slavik said Zoom public comment has increased participation and that he regularly attends evening city and township meetings across District 1’s 21 communities.

More candidate and voting information is available at https://mnvotes.org and https://vote411.org

Written by: Bradley Patton

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Published: September 12th, 2026.

ANOKA COUNTY: — A woman is facing assault charges after prosecutors allege she attacked another woman and then assaulted a court security deputy inside an Anoka County courtroom.

Tashawn Renee Williams, 48, is charged in Anoka County District Court with gross misdemeanor fourth-degree assault of a peace officer and misdemeanor fifth-degree assault.

According to the criminal complaint, the incident occurred at approximately 9:30 a.m. on Sept. 8 inside a courtroom at the Anoka County Courthouse.

A court security deputy reported seeing Williams and another person leave counsel tables and return to the courtroom gallery. The complaint alleges Williams then physically attacked the other woman, pulling her hair and striking her.

When the deputy attempted to separate the two, Williams allegedly pulled the deputy's hair and struck him, according to the complaint. A second deputy arrived to assist, and the parties were separated.

The alleged victim told authorities she experienced pain from being punched and suffered an abrasion to her left knee.

Williams was arrested following the incident. According to the complaint, a judge requested Williams appear before him before she was taken to jail and subsequently held her in contempt.

Williams was then transported to the Anoka County Jail.

The fourth-degree assault charge carries a maximum sentence of 364 days in jail and/or a $3,000 fine. The fifth-degree assault charge carries a maximum sentence of 90 days in jail and/or a $1,000 fine.

The charges are allegations. Williams is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in court.

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Published: September 12th, 2026.

MINNEAPOLIS: — A man has been charged with fifth-degree criminal sexual conduct after prosecutors allege he had nonconsensual sexual contact with a woman in Minneapolis.

According to a criminal complaint filed in Hennepin County District Court, Daud Hussein Mohamud is charged with one count of fifth-degree criminal sexual conduct involving nonconsensual sexual contact, a gross misdemeanor.

The charge stems from an alleged incident on Sept. 10, 2026, on Hennepin Avenue South in Minneapolis.

According to the complaint, an adult woman told police that Mohamud approached her while she was outside the building. Prosecutors allege Mohamud initially extended his hand as though he was going to shake her hand before making unwanted sexual contact with her.

The woman contacted police after Mohamud allegedly walked away, according to the complaint.

Responding officers located Mohamud in the area based on a description provided by the woman. The complaint alleges that while being detained, Mohamud spontaneously asked officers whether the detention was “about the lady.”

Police then conducted an identification procedure, during which the woman identified Mohamud as the person involved in the alleged incident, according to the complaint.

Mohamud was in custody at the time the complaint was filed.

Fifth-degree criminal sexual conduct as charged in this case is a gross misdemeanor punishable by up to 364 days in jail and/or a $3,000 fine.

The allegations contained in the criminal complaint are accusations. Mohamud is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in court.

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Published: September 12th, 2026.

MINNEAPOLIS: — A woman has been charged with felony drive-by shooting after prosecutors allege she fired a gun toward another woman during an argument in Minneapolis.

Dejanay Love Rootues, 35, is charged in Hennepin County District Court with one felony count of dangerous weapons — drive-by shooting toward a person — and one gross misdemeanor count of carrying a pistol without a permit.

According to the criminal complaint, Minneapolis police responded on Sept. 10 to a ShotSpotter activation involving a vehicle on 14th Avenue North. Approximately 30 minutes later, an officer reported seeing a white BMW SUV associated with the incident pull into the driveway of a residence.

Officers arrested Rootues, who had been inside the BMW, and searched the vehicle, the complaint alleges. Police reportedly found a pistol and an extended clear magazine inside a cross-body bag in the trunk, along with a second firearm described in the complaint as a teal LPC .380.

The alleged victim later flagged down officers and told police that she and Rootues had gotten into an argument. According to the complaint, Rootues was in the front seat of the BMW, a man was in the passenger seat and a small child was in the back seat, while the alleged victim was outside the vehicle on foot.

The woman told investigators she saw Rootues reach into a black bag near the center console and pull out a firearm. She said she turned and began running from the BMW before hearing a gunshot, according to the complaint. She told police she believed Rootues fired through the passenger-side window in her direction.

Rootues gave investigators a different account, according to the complaint. Following a Miranda warning, she allegedly told officers that she was dropping her children off at school when the other woman approached her and an argument began. Rootues said the two knew each other because of a conflict involving their children.

Rootues allegedly told investigators that the other woman produced a firearm, waved it around and threatened her. She denied knowing about two loaded firearms that police said were located in the vehicle behind where her children had been seated, according to the complaint. Rootues also allegedly acknowledged that she did not have a permit to carry a pistol but denied touching the firearms.

Police also reported finding a clear plastic bag containing suspected narcotics while searching Rootues following her arrest. According to the complaint, officers later identified some of the pills as oxycodone and two others as MDMA/methamphetamine.

The charges listed in the complaint are limited to the alleged drive-by shooting and carrying a pistol without a permit.

The felony drive-by shooting charge carries a maximum possible sentence of 10 years in prison and/or a $20,000 fine. The gross misdemeanor pistol charge carries a maximum possible sentence of 364 days in jail and/or a $3,000 fine.

The allegations contained in the criminal complaint have not been proven in court, and Rootues is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

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Published: September 12th, 2026.

MINNEAPOLIS: — Two people have been charged following a Hennepin County Sheriff’s Office traffic stop in Minneapolis that allegedly ended with the driver fleeing over a stop stick and a passenger running from officers while dropping bags containing suspected cocaine.

Tobias Antonio Taylor is charged in Hennepin County District Court with felony third-degree possession of a controlled substance, felony fleeing a peace officer in a motor vehicle and misdemeanor fleeing a peace officer by means other than a motor vehicle.

The driver, Jodisha Diane Darrough, is separately charged with felony fleeing a peace officer in a motor vehicle.

According to criminal complaints filed against the two defendants, Hennepin County sheriff’s officers observed a vehicle traveling eastbound on West Broadway Boulevard at approximately 2:09 a.m. on Sept. 11. Officers reported seeing Taylor, who was a passenger, without a seat belt.

After stopping the vehicle, officers allegedly observed a marijuana roach on Taylor’s lap. Taylor allegedly provided officers with a false name and date of birth and became argumentative after officers told him the name did not exist.

The complaints allege Taylor became combative when officers asked him to exit the vehicle. When officers attempted to open the vehicle door, Taylor allegedly swatted their hands away, put the vehicle into drive and demanded that Darrough flee from officers.

Darrough then allegedly accelerated away, driving over a stop stick in the process. Officers followed the vehicle with emergency lights and sirens until it stopped a short distance later after a tire deflated, according to the complaints.

Taylor allegedly exited the vehicle and continued fleeing on foot. Prosecutors allege that while running, Taylor dropped two bags containing substances that later field-tested positive for cocaine. The bags weighed 11.92 grams and 6.39 grams, according to the complaint.

Officers used a Taser to stop Taylor. Officers also allegedly recovered another 1.07 grams of a substance that field-tested positive for cocaine from the passenger-side floorboard of the vehicle.

Taylor's third-degree drug possession charge alleges he possessed 10 grams or more of a narcotic drug other than heroin or fentanyl, specifically cocaine. The charge carries a maximum statutory sentence of 20 years in prison and/or a fine.

Taylor and Darrough each face a felony fleeing charge carrying a maximum sentence of three years and one day in prison and/or a $5,000 fine. Taylor's additional misdemeanor fleeing charge carries a maximum sentence of 90 days in jail and/or a $1,000 fine.

The charges are allegations, and Taylor and Darrough are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in court.

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Published: September 12th, 2026.

MINNEAPOLIS: — A Minneapolis man is facing five felony charges after investigators allegedly found nearly 400 grams of a substance that field tested positive for fentanyl and cocaine, additional suspected fentanyl, six firearms and a large amount of cash during a search of a Minneapolis residence.

Garey Lavell Howze has been charged in Hennepin County District Court with two counts of first-degree drug sale, two counts of first-degree drug possession and one count of possessing a firearm or ammunition after a crime-of-violence conviction.

According to the criminal complaint, law enforcement began investigating reports of fentanyl and cocaine trafficking from a residence on the 3200 block of Hennepin Avenue in Minneapolis in the spring of 2026. Investigators identified Howze as the person suspected of trafficking the drugs, the complaint alleges.

On Sept. 9, officers executed a search warrant at the residence and detained Howze as he exited, according to the complaint. Prosecutors allege Howze repeatedly refused officers' commands and resisted attempts to place him in handcuffs.

During the search, officers allegedly recovered six firearms, a large amount of U.S. currency and approximately 392 grams of a powdery substance that field tested positive for fentanyl and cocaine. Investigators also reported finding two additional quantities of suspected fentanyl weighing approximately 6.56 grams and 2.81 grams.

The complaint charges Howze with first-degree sale of 10 grams or more or at least 40 dosage units of heroin or fentanyl; first-degree possession of 25 grams or more or at least 100 dosage units of heroin or fentanyl; first-degree sale of 17 grams or more of cocaine or methamphetamine; and first-degree possession of 50 grams or more of cocaine or methamphetamine.

Each of the four first-degree drug charges carries a maximum potential sentence of 40 years in prison and a fine. The complaint lists a minimum sentence of 65 months for each count.

Howze is also charged with felony possession of a firearm or ammunition by a person previously convicted of a crime of violence. Prosecutors cite a June 2025 third-degree fentanyl possession conviction as a disqualifying conviction. That charge carries a maximum potential sentence of 15 years in prison and a $30,000 fine, with the complaint listing a five-year minimum sentence.

The charges are allegations. Howze is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in court.

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Published: September 11, 2026

APPLE VALLEY, MINNESOTA - Firefighters quickly brought a fire under control Friday afternoon after heavy black smoke and flames were reported coming from the roof of the Apple Valley Hayes Community Center.

Apple Valley firefighters, police officers and Allina Health medics were dispatched around 3:25 p.m. Friday, September 11, 2026, to the community center in the 14000 block of Hayes Road. Initial reports indicated heavy black smoke, and flames were visible coming from the building's roof on the far northeast portion.

The response was upgraded to a second alarm at approximately 3:26 p.m., just minutes after the initial dispatch. The upgrade prompted a callback for additional Apple Valley Fire Department personnel to respond. Firefighters encountered strong winds while working to contain the blaze but quickly gained control of the fire. Crews reported the fire was out at approximately 3:47 p.m., about 22 minutes after the initial call.

Based on preliminary information from the scene, the fire appears to have been contained to a section of the building's roof. The extent of any additional damage to the community center was not immediately known. No one was reported in the building, as it is currently vacant while crews remodel it, and construction workers were said to have already left for the day.

The cause of the fire remains under investigation.

Limitless Media News is reaching out to the Apple Valley Fire Department for additional information, including what may have caused the fire, the extent of the damage, and whether the building will be affected by the incident. This story will be updated as additional information becomes available.

Written by: Will Wight

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Published: September 11, 2026.

HASTINGS, MN: — Prosecutors in Dakota County have formally charged Kylie Elizabeth Feldick, 30, with a new felony count following an investigation by the Hastings Police Department into alleged criminal sexual conduct involving a minor.

According to court records from Dakota County District Court, Feldick faces one count of second-degree criminal sexual conduct involving multiple acts committed over an extended period with a victim under 16 years of age with whom she held a significant relationship. Under Minnesota law, the felony charge carries a statutory maximum sentence ranging up to 25 years in prison and up to $35,000 in fines.

According to the statement of probable cause, the Hastings Police Department received a referral on December 8, 2025, regarding allegations of criminal sexual conduct that occurred at a residence in Hastings. The criminal complaint outlines allegations spanning between February 1, 2023, and May 15, 2025. Court documents detail that the minor disclosed that Feldick engaged in repeated sexual contact with the child. The complaint also alleges that Feldick used a phone to record media during the encounters, sent videos of herself, and shared explicit media over a mobile application.

An adult resident interviewed by police confirmed that Feldick spent time in the bedroom while he was in the living room, but stated he was unaware of any improper conduct or shared media at the time.

The new complaint highlights that Feldick was already subject to criminal prosecution in Dakota County prior to the filing of these charges. Court documents note that Feldick was previously charged with criminal sexual conduct in Court File No. 19HA-CR-25-939 for acts involving a young child. Official records indicate that Feldick was taken into custody regarding that prior case on May 15, 2025, which marks the end date of the offense period cited in the latest filing.

A criminal complaint contains formal allegations based on probable cause.

Feldick is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law. Proceedings for the new charge will continue in Dakota County District Court.

Written by: Juan Perez

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Published: September 11, 2026.

SAINT PAUL, MN: A longtime Minnesota tennis instructor whose work has focused on making the sport more accessible and welcoming is receiving national recognition for her efforts both on and off the court.

Judy Long, a tennis instructor and adult program coordinator at the Fred Wells Tennis & Education Center in St. Paul, has been selected as USTA Northern's honoree for the Billie Jean King Champions of Equality Award. The recognition honors individuals who exemplify the spirit of tennis legend Billie Jean King through their commitment to advancing equality, inclusion, and opportunity through the sport. Long was among 16 grassroots tennis leaders representing USTA sections from across the country recognized during the fourth annual Champions of Equality event at the 2026 US Open in New York.

Emmy Award-winning journalist, author, and entrepreneur Hoda Kotb was also honored with the Billie Jean King Champions of Equality Award during the event, which celebrated people working to advance equality both within tennis and in their communities. The United States Tennis Association described the event as highlighting those who are "leading the fight for equality on and off the court."

For Long, the national recognition follows more than two decades of involvement with the Fred Wells Tennis & Education Center and years of work connecting people with tennis, education, and mentorship.

More Than Two Decades at Fred Wells

Long's connection with Fred Wells dates back to the organization's early years. According to a profile previously published by the Fred Wells Tennis & Education Center on Long’s 20th Anniversary, Long became familiar with the organization through a free Saturday tennis program in 2002. Her children participated in the program while Long, who was working as a teacher at the time, often used the opportunity to prepare for her classes.

Long had previously taught in Minneapolis schools and coached volleyball at Powderhorn Park. Her experience working with young people eventually caught the attention of coach Gary Clark, who encouraged her to apply for a position at Fred Wells. She was hired in December 2004 as the organization worked to further develop the educational component accompanying its tennis programs.

One of Long's early efforts involved working with students from Sheridan Global Arts School. Students participated in life-skills activities before heading onto the tennis courts, combining education and personal development with an introduction to the sport. The goal went beyond simply teaching children how to play tennis. The program also gave coaches and staff a chance to build relationships with young people that could continue as they progressed through school.

Long has emphasized the importance of building those relationships early, particularly before students reach middle school, when keeping young people consistently involved in extracurricular programming can become more challenging.

Those connections could also expand beyond individual participants, with children introducing younger siblings, friends, and other family members to Fred Wells programs.

Expanding Access to the Sport

Making tennis accessible has been a significant part of the work at Fred Wells, particularly for young people who may otherwise encounter financial, transportation or other barriers to participating in the sport. Transportation was among those challenges.

Over the years, Long recalled staff and volunteers finding ways to transport children to and from programming by bus and van. Those challenges became even more complicated during the COVID-19 pandemic, when capacity restrictions limited how many children could travel together. Finding ways around those barriers has remained part of the organization's larger mission.

The Fred Wells Tennis & Education Center brings together people of different ages, abilities, and backgrounds through tennis while providing educational and developmental opportunities for young people. Its TennisWorks outreach programming partners with schools and community organizations to introduce children to tennis while helping participants develop social-emotional and personal skills.

Long continues that work today as a tennis instructor and adult program coordinator, helping extend the organization's mission to players beyond its youth programming. Her approach to coaching has also been shaped by her background as an educator. Long has previously spoken about the importance of developing relationships before focusing solely on instruction, whether in a classroom or on a tennis court. When students know an instructor cares about them and their success, she has said, they can become more receptive to learning. Her own experiences also influenced that philosophy.

Long recalled that attending college was not necessarily expected of her while growing up. A high school counselor encouraged her to pursue higher education and helped her obtain a significant scholarship to Knox College. That experience stayed with Long as she later found herself in a position to encourage young people to pursue opportunities of their own.

Honored on One of Tennis' Biggest Stages

Long's commitment to expanding opportunity and building relationships through tennis closely aligns with the purpose of the Billie Jean King Champions of Equality Award. The award was created in 2023 as the US Open commemorated the 50th anniversary of its decision to award equal prize money to men and women.

The recognition celebrates people who have worked to advance equality, opportunity and representation in tennis and beyond. Those selected from individual USTA sections are recognized for carrying those principles into their own communities, making Long's selection both a national honor and recognition of work taking place locally in Minnesota.

The Fred Wells Tennis & Education Center celebrated Long's selection in a Facebook post, saying the people chosen for the award "exemplify the spirit of Billie Jean King and are devoted to advancing inclusivity through tennis."

"A HUGE congratulations to Coach Judy Long for being USTA Northern's honoree for the Billie Jean King Champions of Equity Award!" the organization wrote. "We couldn't be more proud of Coach Judy!"

The recognition places Long among a nationwide group of tennis leaders whose impact extends beyond wins, losses, and what happens during a match. For Long, it also recognizes more than two decades spent working with players in Minnesota.

While her responsibilities at Fred Wells have evolved over the years, from helping develop educational programming for young people to her current work as a tennis instructor and adult program coordinator, the common thread has remained using tennis to connect people, build relationships, and open doors. Long has previously pointed to former participants who have gone on to graduate from college, serve in the military, and reach other significant milestones as examples of the broader impact that sustained mentorship can have.

Now, more than 20 years after joining Fred Wells, that work is being recognized on the national stage with an award named for one of the most influential advocates for equality in sports. Congratulations, Coach Judy Long!

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Published: September 11, 2026.

EAGAN & MENDOTA HEIGHTS, MN: Two men are facing felony charges in separate Dakota County cases alleging they fled from law enforcement in motor vehicles, including one case involving a driver who allegedly sped away after initially pulling over in Eagan, Minnesota, and another involving a motorcycle reportedly traveling more than 50 mph over the speed limit in Mendota Heights, Minnesota.

Curtis Torri Javon Coppage, 37, of St. Paul, and Weston Louis Kwapick, 20, of Little Canada, have each been charged with one felony count of fleeing a peace officer in a motor vehicle.

The cases are unrelated, according to the allegations contained in their respective criminal complaints.

Eagan Traffic Stop Ends With Driver Allegedly Fleeing

Coppage's charge stems from an incident that occurred on September 6, 2025, in Eagan. According to the criminal complaint, an Eagan police officer was conducting routine patrol at approximately 9:28 p.m. when she observed a red Dodge Charger allegedly speeding and weaving through traffic. A records check indicated that the vehicle's registered owner had a revoked driver's license, according to the complaint.

The officer activated her squad vehicle's emergency lights to conduct a traffic stop. Prosecutors allege the Charger did not immediately stop but eventually pulled over. The officer approached the vehicle and asked the driver whether he was the registered owner. According to the complaint, the driver confirmed that he was. The complaint states the officer then asked the driver for his driver's license. As the driver slowly checked his pockets, prosecutors allege he suddenly accelerated and fled from the traffic stop.

Investigators identified the registered owner of the Charger as Coppage. According to the complaint, the officer later located a phone number associated with Coppage and called him. Coppage allegedly denied being pulled over and denied having possession of the Charger. Coppage told the officer he had last driven the vehicle in 2022 and had recently sold it, according to prosecutors. The complaint states Coppage then ended the phone call.

Investigators later sought and obtained a search warrant for Coppage's cellphone records, including location information. Prosecutors allege the resulting location data placed Coppage's cellphone in the area where the fleeing incident occurred at the time of the incident. Coppage has now been charged with felony fleeing a peace officer in a motor vehicle.

Motorcycle Allegedly Clocked at 115 mph in Mendota Heights

Kwapick faces the same felony charge in a separate case stemming from an April 14, 2026, incident in Mendota Heights.

According to the criminal complaint, a Mendota Heights police officer was patrolling near Interstate 494 and Highway 13 when the officer observed a motorcycle traveling approximately 115 mph in a posted 60 mph zone. Prosecutors allege that as the motorcycle passed the officer, the driver looked toward the officer and accelerated further. According to the complaint, the motorcycle was later tracked using cameras.

Later, the Minnesota State Patrol attempted to stop the motorcycle. Prosecutors allege the motorcycle changed lanes and drove away as state troopers approached. Law enforcement used video surveillance during the investigation and obtained an image of the motorcycle's license plate, according to the complaint. Investigators determined the motorcycle was registered to Kwapick.

An officer later went to Kwapick's address and spoke with him. According to prosecutors, Kwapick acknowledged riding his motorcycle that day but told the officer he did not see the officer attempting to stop him. Kwapick was subsequently charged with felony fleeing a peace officer in a motor vehicle.

Both Are Scheduled for October Court Appearances

Under Minnesota law, fleeing a peace officer in a motor vehicle is a felony. The complaints list a maximum potential sentence of three years and one day in prison and/or a fine of up to $5,000.

Both cases are scheduled for their first court appearances at 9 a.m. on Oct. 13, 2026, at the Dakota County Judicial Center in Hastings.

Although Coppage and Kwapick are scheduled to appear in court on the same date and face the same type of felony charge, the allegations arise from separate incidents occurring months apart, and there is no indication the cases are connected.

The charges contained in criminal complaints are allegations. Both defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in court.

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INVER GROVE HEIGHTS MN: — An Eagan man is facing a felony charge in Dakota County after an undercover law enforcement sting targeting individuals soliciting minors for commercial sex led to his arrest at an Inver Grove Heights hotel.

Deanell Evon Dunkley was charged via criminal complaint with one felony count of solicitation of prostitution involving a minor believed to be 16 or 17 years old, under Minnesota Statute § 609.324.1(c)(3). If convicted, Dunkley faces a maximum penalty of up to five years in prison, a fine ranging from $3,000 to $10,000, or both.

According to the complaint filed in Dakota County District Court:

On July 9, 2026, the Inver Grove Heights Police Department conducted an undercover operation at a local hotel. For approximately one week leading up to the operation, officers placed commercial sex advertisements featuring photos of a young female on a website known for soliciting paid sexual services.

At approximately 12:50 p.m., Dunkley made text contact with an undercover officer posing as the individual in the advertisement. During the exchange, Dunkley inquired about rates and agreed to pay $150 in cash for a half-hour encounter involving explicit sexual acts.

During the text conversation, Dunkley asked the undercover officer for their age. The officer responded, "im 18 next month babe." Although Dunkley replied, "Your too young," he proceeded to the designated hotel location and room provided by the officer.

Officers arrested Dunkley outside the hotel room. A search of his person yielded $154 in cash and a firearm. Following his arrest, Dunkley waived his rights and admitted in a Miranda-compliant statement that he had been texting the undercover officer and believed he was communicating with a female under the age of 18.

Criminal complaints contain allegations, and the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

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Published: September 11, 2026.

LAKEVILLE & EAGAN, MN: Three women face felony theft charges in Dakota County in connection with two separate retail theft investigations in Eagan and Lakeville that prosecutors allege involved more than $6,500 in merchandise.

Court documents filed this week identify the defendants as Jakhyia Deloris Davis, 21, of Minneapolis; Destiny Laray White, 23, of Brooklyn Center; and Zvonne Teanna Perkins-Goode, 24, of Brooklyn Park. Davis is charged in connection with both investigations, while White is charged alongside Davis in the Eagan case and Perkins-Goode is charged alongside Davis in the Lakeville case.

Each defendant faces one count of felony theft involving property valued at more than $1,000 but not more than $5,000. Under Minnesota law, the charge carries a maximum potential sentence of five years in prison and/or a fine of up to $10,000.

Eagan Investigation Dates Back to May 2025

The first investigation stems from alleged thefts at a retail store in Eagan in May 2025. According to criminal complaints filed in Dakota County District Court, Eagan police were called June 3, 2025, to investigate a previously reported theft. While the stores the thefts came from weren’t specified, both women have been excluded from Marshalls, TJMaxx, and HomeGoods, which reasonably suggests the thefts came from one of those stores.

Investigators allege Davis and White took merchandise from the store without paying during incidents on May 17 and May 24, 2025. Court documents state the women did not have permission to leave with the merchandise without paying first. Prosecutors say the total value of merchandise allegedly taken during the two incidents exceeded $2,500.

The criminal complaints charge both women with felony theft under Minnesota Statute 609.52, alleging they acted together or intentionally aided one another in taking property without the owner's consent and with the intent to permanently deprive the owner of it. Although the probable cause section references alleged thefts on both May 17 and May 24, the formal charge against each defendant lists an offense date of May 17, 2025.

The Dakota County Attorney's Office approved the complaints on September 9, 2026, and a judge issued them on September 10th. Both defendants were issued summonses directing them to appear in court rather than warrants ordering their arrests. Davis and White are scheduled to make their first appearances in the Eagan cases on October 20, 2026, at 9 a.m. in Hastings.

More Than $4,000 Allegedly Taken in Lakeville

Davis is separately charged alongside Perkins-Goode in connection with an August 9, 2026, theft investigated by the Lakeville Police Department. According to the criminal complaints, Lakeville officers were dispatched on August 9th to a theft that had just occurred at the Walgreens in the city, and were also banned from the Walgreens in Lakeville as a result.

Investigators allege Davis and Perkins-Goode took merchandise from the store without paying and did not have permission to leave the business with the merchandise. The complaints allege the merchandise was worth more than $4,000. Unlike the Eagan case, the court documents state that the merchandise was recovered and returned to the store.

Both Davis and Perkins-Goode are charged with one count of felony theft involving property valued at more than $1,000 but not more than $5,000. The complaints were approved and issued on September 9, about a month after the alleged theft. Both defendants were issued summonses requiring them to appear in Dakota County District Court. Davis and Perkins-Goode are scheduled to make their first appearances in the Lakeville cases on October 13, 2026, at 9 a.m. in Hastings.

Davis Charged in Both Investigations

Davis is the only defendant charged in both investigations. Combined, prosecutors allege Davis participated in the Eagan thefts involving more than $2,500 in merchandise and the separate Lakeville theft involving more than $4,000. The allegations therefore involve more than $6,500 worth of merchandise across the two investigations, although the complaints do not provide exact totals beyond stating that the Eagan merchandise exceeded $2,500 and the Lakeville merchandise exceeded $4,000.

The allegations contained in criminal complaints represent the prosecution's version of events and have not been proven in court. Davis, White, and Perkins-Goode are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

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Published: September 11, 2026.

APPLE VALLEY, MN: A 21-year-old woman is facing a felony burglary charge after Apple Valley police say a resident caught her inside his garage early Monday morning, leading officers to find property allegedly taken from two vehicles in the surrounding neighborhood.

Angelina Julia Taylor, 21, of Inver Grove Heights, has been charged in Dakota County District Court with second-degree burglary of a dwelling, a felony, and receiving stolen property valued at $500 or less, a misdemeanor. The charges stem from an incident reported around 5:30 a.m. on September 7, 2026, in Apple Valley. The incident location in Apple Valley was not provided.

According to the criminal complaint, officers were dispatched to a residence for a reported burglary after the homeowner described the suspect as a brown-haired woman carrying a red bag. Police located a woman matching that description near the residence and identified her as Taylor, according to the complaint.

Resident Allegedly Catches Suspect in Garage

The homeowner told investigators he was awake when he heard his garage door open. He then checked surveillance camera footage and allegedly saw Taylor inside the garage getting into his wife's vehicle, according to the complaint. The resident went outside to confront Taylor, at which point she allegedly ran from the property.

Investigators subsequently checked a vehicle belonging to the resident that had been parked on the street. According to the complaint, investigators determined that a garage door opener was the only item missing from the vehicle. Police allege Taylor used that opener to access the home's garage.

When officers searched the red bag Taylor was carrying, they allegedly found mail belonging to the resident and a garage door opener. Officers tested the opener and confirmed that it operated the resident's garage door, according to the complaint.

Taylor Said She Was Offered $400

Taylor later provided a statement to investigators after being advised of her Miranda rights, according to the complaint. Taylor allegedly told police that a person she described as a "friend" had offered to pay her $400 to break into a vehicle and townhome to retrieve a bag. According to the complaint, Taylor said she did not actually know the person but agreed to do it because she needed money. She allegedly told investigators that the person provided directions on how to get into the vehicle and garage.

Taylor also allegedly acknowledged that she did not have permission to enter either the vehicle or garage. The criminal complaint does not identify the alleged "friend" or indicate whether investigators have identified that person.

Second Alleged Vehicle Break-in Reported Nearby

Police say their investigation also connected Taylor to property taken from another vehicle in the area. Officers allegedly found a wallet belonging to another person, identified in the complaint, in Taylor's possession.

Shortly after police received the initial burglary report, the victim in the second case contacted authorities to report that his vehicle had been broken into, according to the complaint. The victim reportedly lived only a few blocks from the first residence.

Taylor's misdemeanor receiving stolen property charge stems from allegations that she possessed property valued at $500 or less while knowing or having reason to know it had been stolen.

Felony Burglary Charge

Taylor's most serious charge is second-degree burglary of a dwelling. Under the charge filed against her, prosecutors allege Taylor entered a building without consent and with the intent to commit a crime inside, or entered without consent and committed a crime while inside, with the building qualifying as a dwelling. The felony carries a maximum possible sentence of 10 years in prison and/or a fine of up to $20,000 upon conviction.

The receiving stolen property charge carries a maximum possible sentence of 90 days in jail and/or a fine of up to $1,000.

The Dakota County Attorney's Office's September 9th bail request confirms the Apple Valley Police Department investigated the case and lists the same felony burglary and misdemeanor receiving stolen property charges. The Dakota County Attorney's Office initially requested bail of $40,000 without conditions or $30,000 with conditions, according to a prosecution bail request filed September 9th. The prosecution's filing also states that prosecutors believe Taylor's alleged actions were "motivated by drug use."

Court records for this story show Judicial Officer Krista M. Marks ultimately set interim bail at $30,000 without conditions or $2,000 with conditions, lower than the amounts prosecutors requested, with Taylor’s omnibus hearing set for September 30, 2026, at 1:30 PM in Hastings, MN. Court records show that as of the writing of this article, Taylor has not posted bail and remains in custody at the Dakota County Jail.

Taylor is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in court.

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BURNSVILLE, MINNESOTA - The skies over Burnsville will become the backdrop for a large-scale tribute Friday night (tonight), as 1,200 illuminated drones take flight to commemorate the 25th anniversary of the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks.

The special aerial drone show is scheduled to begin at approximately 9:30 p.m. Friday, September 11, 2026, as part of the Burnsville Festival and Fire Muster at Civic Center Park. Organizers say the approximately 15-minute display will honor those who lost their lives during the September 11th attacks, including the first responders who died while attempting to save others. The show will also honor Burnsville's own fallen heroes.

This year marks 25 years since the attacks of September 11, 2001, when nearly 3,000 people were killed in coordinated terrorist attacks in New York City, at the Pentagon, and aboard United Airlines Flight 93, which crashed in Pennsylvania.

The Burnsville Festival described Friday night's display as a special remembrance of the tragedy and the first responders who made the ultimate sacrifice.

1,200 Drones Will Fill the Burnsville Sky

Friday's performance will be the Burnsville Festival's second annual large-scale aerial drone show. Aerial Illuminations, based in Shakopee, Minnesota, and Orlando, Florida, is presenting the show. Pawn America is sponsoring the 1,200-drone performance.

The drones are expected to fly approximately 700 feet above the ground, making the display visible well beyond the immediate festival grounds. Shortly before the performance begins, festival organizers will announce the start of the show and direct spectators to look toward the southwestern sky.

The scheduled show time is 9:30 to 9:45 p.m. However, organizers caution that the 9:30 p.m. launch is a target time and could be affected by weather conditions, particularly wind.

Viewing Available Outside Festival Grounds

People do not necessarily need to be inside the main festival grounds to see the display.

Festival organizers are making designated viewing space available on fields directly behind Nicollet Middle School, where spectators may bring blankets or chairs and sit between the security perimeter lines and fencing separating the public from the drone and fireworks safety areas.

Because there will be no fireworks Friday night, spectators will also be permitted to use the fireworks safety zone on the east side of the fence line for viewing the drone show.

Above is a map of the spectator viewing area provided by the Burnsville Festival, followed by a Google Map of Civic Park for another view of the viewing area.

Organizers emphasized that spectators must remain outside restricted drone safety areas and follow posted fencing and security boundaries. Because the drones will reach approximately 700 feet in altitude, the show should also be visible from a considerable distance around Burnsville.

Anyone choosing to watch from outside the designated festival viewing areas is asked to use caution and park only where parking is legally permitted. Drivers should avoid stopping or parking in locations that could obstruct traffic, emergency vehicles, or other motorists.

A Tribute 25 Years After September 11th

Friday's show comes exactly 25 years after the attacks that fundamentally changed the United States and became one of the deadliest days in the nation's history.

On the morning of September 11, 2001, terrorists hijacked four commercial airplanes. Two were flown into the World Trade Center towers in New York City, another struck the Pentagon in Arlington, Virginia, and a fourth, United Airlines Flight 93, crashed near Shanksville, Pennsylvania, after passengers and crew members attempted to regain control of the aircraft.

Among those killed were hundreds of firefighters, law enforcement officers and other emergency personnel who responded to the unfolding disaster.

Burnsville's commemorative display is intended not only to remember the victims of those attacks, but also to recognize the first responders who ran toward danger to help others. The tribute will extend closer to home by recognizing Burnsville's fallen heroes, connecting the national remembrance with members of the local public safety community who have lost their lives in service.

Additional event details and the full schedule are available through Burnsville Festival and Fire Muster

Written by: Will Wight

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ROBBINSDALE MN: — A 26-year-old man is facing a felony fleeing charge after prosecutors allege he led Robbinsdale police on a vehicle pursuit before his BMW became disabled and he ran from officers on foot.

Drake Stuart Rathje has been charged in Hennepin County District Court with felony fleeing a peace officer in a motor vehicle and misdemeanor fleeing a peace officer by means other than a motor vehicle. The felony charge carries a maximum sentence of three years and one day in prison and/or a $5,000 fine.

According to the criminal complaint, Robbinsdale police officers were on routine patrol near County Road 81 and 40th Avenue North at approximately 6:16 p.m. on Sept. 8 when they saw a gray BMW sedan allegedly make an illegal turn and cut off multiple vehicles.

Officers activated their emergency lights, but prosecutors allege the BMW turned onto Lakeland Avenue North and accelerated away. The complaint states the driver then failed to stop at a posted stop sign at 39th Avenue before continuing south on Lakeland Avenue North.

Police continued pursuing the vehicle as it traveled south onto Newton Avenue North, according to the complaint. Prosecutors allege the BMW sustained damage while traveling through an area of ongoing construction and eventually became disabled.

The driver allegedly got out of the BMW and ran from officers. During the foot pursuit, a witness reportedly told police the driver was hiding in the backyard of a residence on Oliver Avenue North.

Officers went to the area and allegedly found Rathje hiding behind an air-conditioning unit. He was arrested and identified as the driver and registered owner of the BMW, according to the complaint.

Prosecutors say Rathje later told investigators during a Mirandized statement that he had consumed fentanyl earlier that day. Police obtained a search warrant for a blood sample, which was collected and sent to the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension for testing. The complaint states the results were pending at the time it was filed.

Rathje remained in custody at the time of the complaint.

The charges are allegations. Rathje is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in court.

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NORTH ST PAUL: — A man is recovering from multiple facial fractures, including a broken jaw that required reconstructive surgery, after he was reportedly assaulted by a group of people while attending the Minnesota State Fair.

According to information shared by Neumann’s Bar in North St. Paul, Sammy was assaulted while at the State Fair and is now facing a lengthy recovery. The bar said those responsible had not been caught as of its post.

Sammy's injuries include multiple facial fractures and a broken jaw that required reconstructive surgery, according to the information shared by the bar.

Sammy is the fiancé of Heather, a bartender at Neumann’s. The couple has a daughter, and the bar said the family is dealing with expenses associated with Sammy's injuries and recovery.

Neumann’s has placed a donation bucket behind the bar, with all money collected going to the family to help with expenses. The bar said it plans to continue accepting donations for as long as needed.

The business is also accepting items that could help during Sammy's recovery, including soft foods due to his broken jaw, juice, pajamas, ice packs and dental swabs.

A benefit is also planned for Oct. 10 at Roddy’s, where a bottle raffle will be held for Sammy. Additional details are expected to be announced.

The information regarding the assault, injuries and assistance efforts was shared publicly by Neumann’s Bar.

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ST. BONIFACIUS MN: — A driver has been charged after prosecutors allege he was using his cellphone moments before a crash that caused an SUV carrying a woman and two children to overturn on Highway 7 in St. Bonifacius. Officers later reported finding the driver's phone open to a dating application, according to a Hennepin County criminal complaint.

Zachary Thomas Simmons, 26, is charged in Hennepin County District Court with gross misdemeanor criminal vehicular operation resulting in bodily harm through gross negligence and misdemeanor use of a wireless communications device while driving.

According to the criminal complaint, Minnetrista police responded Aug. 17th to a crash at Highway 7 and Maplewood Road in St. Bonifacius.

Police arrived to find a 2007 Toyota Sequoia overturned and resting in the area of oncoming traffic, according to the complaint. A woman and two children, ages 15 and 8 at the time, had been inside the SUV.

The woman told police she had been traveling west on Highway 7 and had signaled to turn left onto southbound Maplewood Road when a Chevrolet Silverado traveling behind her struck the rear of her SUV. The impact allegedly caused the Sequoia to spin and overturn.

Investigators identified Simmons as the driver of the Silverado.

According to the complaint, Simmons told an officer he had accessed his work phone while driving because he was attempting to clock out of work. He allegedly said he kept one hand on the steering wheel while manipulating the phone with his other hand and estimated he had been looking at the device for approximately two to three seconds before the collision.

Other officers reported seeing Simmons' phone on the driver's seat of his vehicle and said it appeared to be open to a dating application, according to the complaint. Simmons allegedly told police the dating application had been open and that he had been unable to switch to his work account to clock out before the crash.

The woman and the two children later went to Ridgeview Waconia Hospital for evaluation.

According to medical records cited in the complaint, the woman was diagnosed with neck pain, an acute headache and an abrasion on the top of her head. One of the children was diagnosed with an acute headache, muscle soreness and bruising to the left thigh.

Prosecutors allege Simmons caused bodily harm by operating a motor vehicle in a grossly negligent manner.

The charges are allegations. Simmons is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in court.

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TWIN CITIES, MINNESOTA - Violent crime declined across Minnesota in 2025, with the state recording fewer murders, robberies and aggravated assaults along with substantial decreases in vehicle thefts and carjackings, according to newly released statewide crime data.

The Minnesota Department of Public Safety’s Bureau of Criminal Apprehension released its 2025 Uniform Crime Report on Thursday, September 10, 2026, providing a statewide look at crimes reported by local law enforcement agencies. Minnesota's violent crime rate fell to 226 offenses per 100,000 residents in 2025, the lowest rate reported since 2019.

The decline was seen both in the Twin Cities metropolitan area and across greater Minnesota. Violent crime decreased 14% in the seven-county metro area, which includes Anoka, Carver, Dakota, Hennepin, Ramsey, Scott and Washington counties. Greater Minnesota recorded a 9% decrease.

Murders Fall Sharply from 2024

Minnesota recorded 130 murders in 2025, down from 172 in 2024, a decrease of approximately 24%. The number has declined considerably from several years earlier. Minnesota recorded 204 murders in 2021, 183 in 2022 and 182 in 2023. Firearms were involved in 69.2% of murders reported in 2025, compared with 75% in 2024.

The BCA also reported that 78% of homicide cases were cleared by arrest or exceptional means in 2025, up from 76% the previous year.

An incident can be considered cleared by exceptional means when authorities have identified an offender but circumstances outside law enforcement's control prevent formal charges from being filed, such as when the offender has died.

Robberies and Aggravated Assaults Decline

Robbery showed one of the largest declines among violent crime categories. Minnesota recorded 2,054 robberies in 2025, compared with 2,838 in 2024, a decrease of nearly 28%. The decline is even more pronounced when compared with 2021, when 4,009 robberies were reported statewide. The 2025 total was nearly 49% lower than four years earlier.

Aggravated assaults also declined. Law enforcement agencies reported 8,762 aggravated assaults in 2025, down 11% from 9,842 in 2024. Aggravated assaults have declined each year since at least 2021, when Minnesota recorded 10,879 incidents.

The BCA reported 2,188 rapes in 2025, down 1.9% from 2,231 in 2024. According to the report, 71.8% of reported rapes occurred in a home and 37.5% of victims were minors.

Vehicle Thefts Drop More Than 22%

Minnesota also recorded a significant reduction in motor vehicle thefts during 2025. A total of 9,803 vehicles were reported stolen, down 22.4% from 12,634 in 2024. Vehicle thefts have now fallen substantially from their recent peak. Minnesota recorded 16,834 motor vehicle thefts in 2022 and 15,631 in 2023. The 2025 total represents a decline of approximately 42% from 2022.

Carjackings also dropped sharply. Minnesota law enforcement agencies reported 294 completed or attempted carjackings during 2025, compared with 426 in 2024 — a decrease of 31%. The BCA notes that carjacking incidents are tracked separately and are not included in the state's motor vehicle theft totals.

Larceny Reaches Lowest Level in 57 Years

Property crime declined across all four major categories included in the report. There were 64,157 larceny incidents reported statewide in 2025, down from 71,075 in 2024 and 88,153 in 2021. According to the BCA, the 2025 figure is Minnesota's lowest number of reported larceny incidents in 57 years.

Burglaries declined from 10,618 in 2024 to 9,254 in 2025, a decrease of approximately 13%. That continues a longer-term decline from 14,548 burglaries reported in 2021.

Arson incidents decreased from 590 in 2024 to 500 in 2025. Minnesota recorded 723 arsons in 2021.

Taken together, the data show decreases from 2024 to 2025 in murder, rape, robbery, aggravated assault, burglary, larceny, motor vehicle theft, and arson.

Bias Crimes Remain Relatively Steady

The number of reported bias-motivated incidents remained relatively unchanged. Minnesota agencies reported 224 bias incidents in 2025, compared with 228 in 2024.

For comparison, agencies reported 182 incidents in 2023, 165 in 2022, and 241 in 2021.

The report also found that 82% of reported drug abuse violations were cleared by arrest in 2025, compared with 81% in each of the previous three years.

Police Use-of-Force Incidents Decline

The Uniform Crime Report also includes information required under Minnesota law on law enforcement use of force, assaults against officers, police pursuits and other law enforcement activity.

Minnesota agencies reported 21 use-of-force incidents involving firearm discharges in 2025, six fewer than the 27 reported in 2024.

Across the use-of-force data reported by the BCA, six people died, and 16 incidents resulted in serious injuries requiring medical attention. Four incidents did not result in injury.

Agencies reported race information for people on whom force was used as 12 White, eight Black, four American Indian or Alaska Native and two Asian. Those figures may exceed the number of incidents because an incident can involve more than one person.

Law enforcement officers were assaulted in 981 incidents during 2025, a 1.3% decrease from 2024.

New tracking-warrant data included

The report also contains information from a relatively new reporting requirement involving tracking devices placed on stolen or fleeing vehicles.

The Minnesota Legislature began requiring the information with the 2024 Uniform Crime Report. Agencies must report search warrants obtained to maintain a mobile tracking device on a stolen or fleeing vehicle for more than 12 hours.

For the reporting period between Aug. 1, 2024, and Aug. 1, 2025, three such warrants were reported statewide.

The BCA noted that the date range for this requirement differs from the reporting periods used for other statistics in the Uniform Crime Report.

Five-year data show broader declines

The newly released figures also provide a longer look at how several major crime categories have changed since 2021.

Murders declined from 204 in 2021 to 130 in 2025. Robberies fell from 4,009 to 2,054 during the same period, while aggravated assaults decreased from 10,879 to 8,762.

Property crimes followed a similar pattern. Burglaries fell from 14,548 in 2021 to 9,254 in 2025, while larceny declined from 88,153 to 64,157.

Motor vehicle theft has followed a somewhat different trajectory. The number increased from 14,893 in 2021 to 16,834 in 2022 before beginning a sustained decline, falling to 15,631 in 2023, 12,634 in 2024, and 9,803 in 2025.

The 2025 Uniform Crime Report is compiled from crime information submitted to the BCA by law enforcement agencies across Minnesota and provides one of the state's most comprehensive annual snapshots of reported criminal activity.

The complete report, along with Minnesota's Crime Data Explorer and reports from previous years, is available through the Bureau of Criminal Apprehension.

Written by: Will Wight

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MINNEAPOLIS MN: — A man is facing three felony charges after prosecutors allege he threatened officers, swung a pointed object at one officer, attempted to grab another officer’s Taser and punched an officer during an arrest in Minneapolis.

Antonio Dajuan Vortice was charged in Hennepin County District Court with felony prohibited possession of pepper spray, attempted disarming of a peace officer and fourth-degree assault of a peace officer causing demonstrable bodily harm.

According to the criminal complaint, law enforcement responded Sept. 9 to the area of Lake Street and Nicollet Avenue for a follow-up report involving a suspect who had allegedly been harassing people at a bus stop with a knife.

Officers identified the suspect as Vortice, according to prosecutors. The complaint alleges Vortice became increasingly agitated and threatening while interacting with officers and at one point stated that he would “stab an officer today.”

Prosecutors allege Vortice then grabbed a small can of pepper spray and held it as though he was preparing to deploy it toward officers. Authorities later determined the can contained oleoresin capsicum, commonly used in pepper spray.

As officers attempted to take Vortice into custody, he allegedly pulled an object from his pocket and swung it upward toward an officer. The object was later identified as a long, pointed comb handle, according to the complaint.

During the struggle, prosecutors allege Vortice attempted to remove a Taser from another officer’s duty belt. He is also accused of punching an officer in the face, causing cuts to the officer’s nose and beneath the eye.

The complaint states Vortice has a 2011 first-degree aggravated robbery conviction that prohibits him from possessing pepper spray under Minnesota law.

Court records listed in the complaint also indicate Vortice has other open and pending cases in Hennepin and Ramsey counties.

Each of the prohibited-possession and attempted-disarming charges carries a maximum potential sentence of five years in prison and/or a $10,000 fine. The fourth-degree assault charge carries a maximum potential sentence of three years and/or a $6,000 fine.

Vortice remained in custody at the time the complaint was filed.

The charges are allegations. Vortice is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in court.

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Published: September 10, 2026

BURNSVILLE, MN: A Burnsville man and registered predatory offender is facing two felony criminal sexual conduct charges after authorities allege he repeatedly sexually abused a 7-year-old child over a period of several months.

Jason Foster Groutwells, 42, was charged in Dakota County District Court with first-degree criminal sexual conduct involving a victim under 18, a significant relationship and multiple acts, along with second-degree criminal sexual conduct involving a victim under 16, a significant relationship and multiple acts. The charges stem from an investigation by the Burnsville Police Department that began after Dakota County Child Protective Services received information regarding an alleged disclosure of sexual abuse.

According to the criminal complaint, authorities allege the abuse occurred between approximately May 1 and Aug. 10, 2026, in Dakota County.

Report Prompts Investigation

The Burnsville Police Department received a cross-report from Dakota County Child Protective Services on August 28, 2026, regarding allegations of sexual abuse involving the 7-year-old child, according to the complaint. Court documents allege Groutwells had previously made statements to a mandated reporter about attempting to help the child with difficulties sleeping. Those statements included an alleged admission that he had shown the child an inappropriate method of self-soothing that involved sexual touching.

Because of the child's age and the nature of the allegations, Limitless Media News is withholding graphic details contained in the criminal complaint as well as information that could further identify the child.

An investigator later spoke with an adult witness after the child disclosed the alleged touching on August 10th, according to the complaint. Court documents allege Groutwells was subsequently confronted about what the child had reported. Groutwells allegedly acknowledged inappropriate touching had occurred and said what he had done was wrong and a mistake. According to the complaint, he allegedly admitted to touching the child inappropriately but denied one of the more serious forms of contact later described by the child during the investigation.

Child Participates in Forensic Interview

The child later participated in a forensic interview as part of the investigation. According to the complaint, the child told the interviewer that Groutwells had done "inappropriate things" and said the child had been afraid to tell others because of concerns that Groutwells would be arrested.

According to court documents, investigators used age-appropriate anatomical drawings and dolls during the forensic interview. The complaint alleges the child described and demonstrated multiple instances of inappropriate sexual touching. The child also reportedly told investigators the contact caused pain and described attempting to stop Groutwells during some of the alleged incidents.

The child further alleged that some of the incidents involved penetration, according to the complaint. Court documents allege the abuse began during the summer when the child was 6 years old.

Two Felony Charges Filed

Groutwells is charged with one count of first-degree criminal sexual conduct under a provision of Minnesota law involving a minor victim, a significant relationship between the defendant and victim, and multiple acts of alleged sexual abuse over an extended period. The first-degree charge carries a maximum potential sentence of 30 years in prison and a fine of up to $40,000, according to the charging documents.

He is also charged with one count of second-degree criminal sexual conduct involving a victim under 16, a significant relationship, and multiple acts over an extended period. That charge carries a maximum potential sentence of 25 years in prison and a fine of up to $35,000.

The charges are allegations. Groutwells is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in court.

Previous Child Sexual Abuse Material Convictions

Court documents identify Groutwells as a registered predatory offender. According to the new criminal complaint, Groutwells has five previous convictions for possession of child sexual abuse material stemming from Dakota County. Prosecutors cited those convictions and the allegations in the new case while requesting significant bail.

"The allegations in this case are abhorrent, and significant bail is warranted for victim safety," prosecutors wrote in their bail request.

The Dakota County Attorney's Office also indicated it intends to seek the statutory maximum sentence of 30 years in prison if Groutwells is convicted.

Bail Set at $700,000

Prosecutors requested $750,000 bail along with several conditions of release. Those conditions include no contact with the child and exclusion from the child's location and a one-mile radius around it. Groutwells is also prohibited from having contact with minor females. The judge ultimately set bail at $700,000.

The Burnsville Police Department initiated the investigation. The allegations contained in the criminal complaint have not been proven in court as this case is ongoing.

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