On March 1, 2026, at 2:20 AM, law enforcement was on routine patrol when it observed a vehicle leave the parking lot of Opinion Brewing in Newport, Washington County, Minnesota. The vehicle did not have a light illuminating its back license plate. In addition, the vehicle had an object hanging from its rearview mirror. A traffic stop was initiated. Law enforcement made contact with the driver and explained the reason for the traffic stop. Law enforcement also requested his driver's license and proof of insurance.
The driver inquired about the basis for the stop again. Law enforcement explained the basis and requested his driver's license and proof of insurance again. The driver refused to identify himself and continued to argue with law enforcement about the reason for the stop. The driver requested that supervisor respond to the scene. Law enforcement declined and asked the driver to exit the vehicle due to his recurrent noncompliance. The driver refused. Law enforcement repeatedly directed the driver to exit the vehicle.
He repeatedly declined and stated that he would stay in the vehicle until supervisor arrived on scene. After numerous more commands to exit the vehicle, the driver agreed to exit. He was taken into custody. Law enforcement searched the driver's wallet for his identification. He was identified as ADRIAN JOHN RUIZ VERDEJA, [DOB REDACTED], "the defendant" herein. Law enforcement also located a folded-up dollar bill that contained a white, powdery substance. The substance later field-tested positive for cocaine and weighed. 4 grams.
