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   Cass County Sheriff Bryan Welk reports that on the evening of December 10th, 2024, pursuant to an ongoing investigation involving the use, sales, and trafficking of narcotics into Cass County, a traffic stop was conducted on a target vehicle. Investigators had knowledge that the vehicle had traveled from the St. Paul metropolitan area into Cass County. A pursuit ensued, with the target vehicle travelling approximately ten miles before stopping. The driver, identified as Christopher Ford, age 56, of Backus, MN, was detained. Cass County K9 Ryker was deployed on the vehicle and indicated a positive K9 alert to the presence of controlled substances. No substances were located in the vehicle. Deputies and investigators searched the roadway and ditches along the area where the pursuit occurred. During the search, a plastic grocery bag containing a Ziplock bag with approximately 180 grams of suspected methamphetamine was discovered in the ditch.

   Additionally, on March 24th, 2024, in Pine River Township, Ford was the subject of a vehicle in which a traffic stop was conducted and search of the vehicle yielded approximately 228 grams of methamphetamine.  Ford was arrested and transported to the Cass County Detention Center. Formal charges on both incidents are pending. 

   As we close out the calendar year 2024, Cass County Drug Investigations have led to numerous cases and arrests. In total: 

   • 10 firearms have been seized

   • 24 drug-related arrests have occurred

   • Seized Drugs include:

   •3,135 grams of methamphetamine (street value $194,370.00). 

   •371 grams of cocaine (street value $33,390.00). 

   •430 grams of psilocybin mushrooms ($13,330.00) 

   •188 grams of fentanyl (street value $25,380) 

   •$2,588.00 in US Currency has also been seized

   •Currently have two individuals with federal indictments involved in weapon and narcotic possessions.

   Sheriff Welk reports that most investigations start with a tip from the public. The Cass County Sheriff’s Office encourages you to report suspected drug or other crime-related information to the Sheriff’s Office. You can request to speak to the Investigation staff and you can remain anonymous. You can also report tips and information online through Crime Stoppers of MN through their website portal at: http://crimestoppersmn.org 

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