Surge in winter calls: arrests, crashes, and vandalism reported

Law enforcement in Fergus Falls and across Otter Tail County responded to a heavy slate of winter-time incidents from Jan. 9 through Jan. 12, including a protest-related assault arrest, multiple DWIs, a pursuit on I-94 and several reports of vandalism and vehicle crashes. The volume of calls underscores ongoing concerns about road safety and property security as residents contend with icy conditions and politically charged local disputes.

Fergus Falls Police answered 91 calls for service during the period. The department made an arrest Jan. 10 following a reported assault involving protesters near North Union Avenue and West Lincoln Avenue; the suspect resisted arrest and faces citations including fifth-degree assault, disorderly conduct and obstructing legal process. Officers also investigated vandalism reports, including political signs removed along South Sheridan Street and damage to a turnkey kiosk on Jan. 11, with charges pending in the kiosk case. A two-vehicle crash on Jan. 9 at Western Avenue and West Lincoln Avenue occurred after a driver failed to stop at a red light; both vehicles were towed and a crash report was pending. Courtesy patrols and typical calls for service rounded out the department’s workload, with numerous traffic-related calls, suspicious-activity reports, nuisance complaints, parking violations, animal welfare concerns and assistance with civil and property disputes.

The Otter Tail County Sheriff’s Office logged 154 incidents during the same reporting period. Deputies made several arrests, including multiple driving-while-impaired cases. On Jan. 11, a man was arrested for DWI refusal after deputies responded to a truck fire near a rural residence. Early on Jan. 12 deputies arrested another driver after a vehicle-in-ditch call; impairment and a refusal to submit to testing were cited. A Jan. 10 pursuit on I-94 ended in an arrest on charges that included fleeing in a motor vehicle, fifth-degree possession of methamphetamine, driving after revocation and outstanding warrants; the suspect was booked at the Otter Tail County Detention Facility and the vehicle was impounded.

Icy roads contributed to numerous crashes and vehicles-in-ditch calls, prompting a higher number of traffic stops and citations for violations such as operating without a valid Minnesota driver’s license. Deputies fielded animal-related complaints ranging from loose dogs and horses on roadways to deer strikes; they assisted the Otter Tail County Humane Society in removing and turning over several adult dogs and puppies. Investigators also documented an apparent arson on Jan. 11 when a property owner reported hay bales intentionally set on fire; deputies photographed boot prints in the snow and provided additional patrols in the vicinity.

Residents should note that several investigations and crash reports remain pending and that extra patrols followed specific incidents. The combination of weather, roadway hazards and localized tensions has translated into a busy week for first responders across the county.

The takeaway? Slow down on slick roads, secure signs and other property, and report suspicious activity promptly so deputies can follow up — those small steps help keep Main Street and our rural roads safer for everyone.