APPLE VALLEY, MINNESOTA - A Farmington man, identified as Nahom Asfaw Kelemwork, is facing serious legal charges following his arrest on July 10, 2024. The Dakota County Attorney's Office has filed a complaint alleging that Kelemwork committed several offenses, including controlled substance crimes and possession of a firearm without a permit.

According to the criminal complaint from the Dakota County Attorney's Office, the incident occurred at approximately 10:41 p.m. when an Apple Valley Police Sergeant, on routine patrol, noticed a vehicle stopped in the left turn lane at the intersection of 145th Street and Cedar Avenue. The vehicle remained stationary despite the turn arrow turning green. Upon closer inspection, the Sergeant observed the driver, later identified as Kelemwork, appearing to be passed out in the driver's seat with the vehicle still in drive and his foot on the brake.

The complaint states that upon waking Kelemwork by knocking on the window, officers discovered several indicators of narcotic use, including two large pieces of burnt tin foil. Additionally, a plastic bag containing several blue pills marked “M30,” which are commonly associated with fentanyl, was observed in the vehicle’s cup holder. Further search yielded more pills scattered on the driver’s side floorboard and under the driver’s seat. Also allegedly found under the driver’s seat was an uncased Taurus handgun. In the rear seat, a drawstring bag containing a loaded handgun was discovered, along with a vest on the front seat containing a significant amount of cash and Kelemwork’s identification card.

While being transported to the Dakota County Jail, it was reported in the complaint that Kelemwork was observed on squad video surveillance, moving suspiciously in the back of the patrol car. Upon reviewing the footage, the officer reportedly noticed Kelemwork pushing a plastic bag through the gap in the protective cage. A subsequent search of that area revealed a bag containing 45 “M30” pills, later confirmed to contain fentanyl.

Charges Filed

Kelemwork faces multiple charges, including:

1. 2x - Controlled Substance Crime in the 2nd Degree (Possession): For possessing one or more mixtures of a total weight of six grams or more, or 50 dosage units or more, containing heroin or fentanyl. The maximum sentence for this felony is 25 years imprisonment and a fine between $150,000 and $500,000.

2. Possession of a Pistol Without a Permit (Prior Conviction): For carrying a pistol without a permit, having a prior conviction under the same subdivision. The maximum sentence for this felony is five years imprisonment and a fine between $3,000 and $10,000.

His next court appearance is set for September 19, 2024, at 9 AM in Hastings, Minnesota.

Prior Convictions

Court records show that Kelemwork was previously convicted of Misdemeanor theft on March 3, 2021, October 24, 2020, Gross Misdemeanor Theft on May 25, 2020, and possession of a Pistol Without a Permit on October 24, 2020.

This article provides an overview of the allegations against Nahom Asfaw Kelemwork, detailing the charges, evidence, and potential legal outcomes. The information is derived from the formal complaint filed in the District Court of Minnesota and reflects the ongoing judicial process. The community is reminded that charges are allegations, and the defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. Further updates on this case will depend on the progress of the legal proceedings.

Written by: Will Wight
Photo by Scott Rodgerson on Unsplash

Have any information about this story? You can send it to us at:
tips@limitlessproductiongroup.com

See a breaking story or scene?
If safe, Snap a photo or video of the scene,
Send it to us at tips@limitlessproductiongroup.com