Johnson arrested on terrorizing charges

Darin Johnson of New Rockford is behind bars after he allegedly made threats against current and former county officials.

State’s Attorney Ashley Lies reported to county commissioners Tuesday that Johnson had made threats against Sheriff Paul Lies and former state’s attorney Travis Peterson between Monday, Sept. 23 and Wednesday, Sept. 25. On Thursday, Sept. 26, Ashley Lies filed an Affidavit of Probable Cause, and a warrant was issued for Johnson’s arrest. He was detained in the parking lot of Mick’s 281 Service in New Rockford on Friday morning just after 10 a.m.

Witnesses say he was recording with a phone camera out of the vehicle’s sunroof when he pulled into the parking lot. Johnson faces a Class C Felony terrorizing charge, according to court documents. As of press time, he remained in the Lake Region Correctional Center. His bail is set at $100,000 cash or surety.

State’s Attorney Lies expressed appreciation for local law enforcement in light of a scary situation. “I think in small towns we take for granted what they have to deal with. I’m proud of what they do for us.”

Johnson is due in court for an initial appearance this Thursday, Oct. 10. Further details about the incident have not been made public. As this case progresses, read the Transcript for updates.