>>Family Identifies 3-Year-Old Boy Killed in Accidental Shooting in Otter Tail County
(Deer Creek, MN) — The family is identifying the three-year-old boy who died in an accidental shooting in Otter Tail County. A GoFundMe page has been established to support Rudy Sweere’s mother. The post reads, “On December 29th, the world lost 3.5-year-old Rudy in a tragic accident. Please, prayerfully consider helping the Sweere family during this time as they prepare to celebrate the vibrant life of Rudy.” Sheriff’s deputies say the boy accidentally shot himself Sunday evening near Deer Creek and later died in the hospital.
>>Cloquet Woman Arrested for 11th DWI
(Cloquet, MN) — A Cloquet woman is charged with her 11th DWI. 61-year-old France Smith has 10 prior DWI-related convictions and misdemeanors for driving while drinking, smoking marijuana, and without insurance. Deputies stopped Smith on December 20th after her pickup failed to move at an empty intersection, and her plate showed a revoked license. During the stop, Smith couldn’t provide deputies with a license or insurance. She was described as smelling like liquor, having bloodshot eyes, and having slurred speech. During the arrest, Smith became belligerent. She also refused to take a BAC test. Smith is due in court on January 13th.
>>Former Volleyball Coach Pleads Guilty to Child Porn Production Charges
(Minneapolis, MN) — A former volleyball coach pleaded guilty to two counts of child pornography production on Monday. 32-year-old Dorian Barrs faces a total of seven related counts. Between 2014 and March 2024, Barrs allegedly used social media and texting to persuade girls into sexual acts with him. He’s accused of using his position as a Twin Cities coach from 2020-2024 to coerce girls. Anyone who believes they or their child is a victim of Barrs’ is asked to call 1-800-225-5324.
>>Fargo Police Officer Arrested for DUI
(Fargo, ND) — A Fargo police officer has been placed on paid administrative leave after his arrest for drunken driving. The department says Brandon Rittenour was arrested shortly after 2 a.m. Monday. He was not on duty. Officers responded after a report that a car had struck three unoccupied vehicles and a dumpster in the parking lot of an apartment complex. 33-year-old Rittenour was arrested for DUI and DUI test refusal. Because of overcrowding at the Cass County Jail, He was released after agreeing to appear in court. Police Chief Dave Zibolski says Rittenour will be afforded the same rights as anyone else as his case progresses. Rittenour joined the department about a year ago.
>>City of Minneapolis Prepares for Special Election
(Minneapolis) – The City of Minneapolis is preparing to host a special election for state Senate District 60 next month. This is the seat vacated after the passing of former Majority Leader Kari Dziedzic. The city’s Elections and Voter Services team works closely with Hennepin County and the Secretary of State’s office to coordinate the special election on Tuesday, January 28. Senate District 60 comprises Minneapolis Ward 1, the majority of Ward 2, and portions of Wards 3 and 6. If needed, officials say early voting will begin on January 9. Voters can request a ballot ahead of time.
>> Wild, Wolves Ring in the New Year with Games Tonight
(Undated) – The Timberwolves and Wild play games tonight before ringing in the new year. The Wolves are on the road in Oklahoma City to play the Thunder. OKC has the best record in the Western Conference at 26-5. The Wolves have won three straight games. Meanwhile, the Minnesota Wild will host Nashville tonight at the Xcel Energy Center. The Wild have won two straight. The puck drops at 7 p.m. on the home ice.
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