Charges are filed against two men in bar case

One man arrested for allegedly gambling, possessing drugs and selling alcohol after hours at the New Winnipeg Bar was arraigned Friday in Crow Wing County District Court.

A second man was charged for possessing drugs.

Robert Turcotte, 43, Brainerd, was charged with fifth-degree possession of a controlled substance, illegal operation of a gambling place, unlawful possession of a gambling device and unlawful sale of intoxicating liquor. His next court appearance was scheduled for Feb. 8.

Steven Ehmke, 42, Brainerd, was charged with fifth-degree possession of a controlled substance. His next court appearance was scheduled for Feb. 26. He was identified by police as a bartender at the Winnipeg bar.

The criminal complaint said Brainerd police officer Mike Bestul, based on an anonymous tip, parked near the New Winnipeg Lounge about 4 a.m. Jan. 24 and observed several people walking in to and out of the lounge during the next 90 minutes.

At about 5:30 a.m., Bestul went into the lounge. During his search, he found methamphetamine, customers drinking beer and a football betting board, the complaint stated.