Raymond Bates Drew, 54, of Owatonna, was charged in Steele County District Court on August 20 with two counts of second-degree assault with a dangerous weapon, two counts of making terroristic threats with reckless disregard for risk, and one count of threats of violence. MN Crime reported the charges and described the allegations against Drew: MN Crime.
What led to the charges
The charges stem from an August 16 incident at an apartment building in the 120 block of Park Street Southeast. Officers were called at about 12:59 p.m. after staff reported that a man in a hallway was holding what appeared to be a black handgun. According to the allegations reported by MN Crime, one staff member said Drew pointed the weapon at her, while another said he waved it and may have pointed it at her as well.
The allegations also involve statements directed at the building director. Drew reportedly said he intended to make the director pay and expressed a desire to see the director on his knees. After officers arrived, Drew remained inside his apartment while police worked to resolve the confrontation, MN Crime reported.
Resolution and evidence
How Minnesota law sets penalties
According to the Minnesota Revisor of Statutes, the Legislature—not the filing of charges itself—has exclusive authority to define crimes and set the authorized range of sentences or punishments for violations. The verified materials available for this report do not specify the sentencing range for each count filed against Drew.
Drew eventually opened the apartment door after a staff member offered him a cigarette, and officers took him into custody without further incident. The report said Drew was using a motorized wheelchair when officers found him.
The allegations also include damage to a hallway security camera with a BB gun. Drew reportedly acknowledged shooting at the camera, and a search of his room recovered a knife and multiple BB guns, including one on a nightstand, according to MN Crime.
The available information does not establish whether Drew was released on bail or what conditions, if any, were imposed. The charges are allegations, and Drew is presumed innocent unless proven guilty.
