Minneapolis Man Charged After Bloomington Traffic Stop Leads to Alleged Seizure of Nearly 500 Grams of Methamphetamine
Published: June 15th, 2026
BLOOMINGTON: A man is facing multiple first-degree controlled substance charges after Bloomington police allegedly discovered nearly 500 grams of methamphetamine, scales, packaging materials, and other suspected drug-related items during a traffic stop in the early morning hours of June 11.
According to a criminal complaint filed in Hennepin County District Court, Damien Stephen Donahue, 29, of Minneapolis, is charged with two counts of first-degree controlled substance possession and two counts of first-degree controlled substance sale involving methamphetamine.
The charges stem from a traffic stop conducted at approximately 4:26 a.m. on June 11 on Bloomington Ferry Road. According to the complaint, Bloomington police officers observed a vehicle with an inoperable brake light and expired license plates before initiating the stop.
Investigators allege officers became suspicious after observing what appeared to be marijuana and a glass pipe containing suspected methamphetamine residue inside the vehicle when Donahue opened the center console while retrieving proof of insurance.
A subsequent search of the vehicle allegedly uncovered approximately 108.7 grams of methamphetamine hidden beneath the rear seat and another 377.66 grams of methamphetamine inside a backpack located in the trunk area but accessible from the passenger compartment, according to the complaint.
Police also reportedly recovered digital scales, plastic baggies commonly associated with narcotics distribution, 22 methylphenidate pills contained in an unmarked prescription bottle, additional drug paraphernalia, and four cellular phones located near the driver's seat.
According to the complaint, officers found approximately $500 in cash and a small amount of suspected marijuana on Donahue during his arrest. While being booked into the Bloomington jail, authorities allege Donahue removed two additional baggies from his clothing containing approximately 2.25 grams of methamphetamine.
Investigators interviewed two passengers who were in the vehicle at the time of the stop. One passenger reportedly told officers she knew Donahue to sell methamphetamine and said he had handed her a folded tin pan before the stop and instructed her to place it in the rear of the vehicle. Authorities allege the pan was later found to contain methamphetamine.
The complaint further states both passengers reported Donahue had been driving at high speeds and weaving through traffic before exiting the highway in Bloomington, causing them to fear for their safety.
During questioning, Donahue allegedly admitted he was aware of the methamphetamine located in the back seat but claimed he believed it was a horse joint supplement. He also reportedly acknowledged ownership of the backpack where a larger quantity of methamphetamine was found but denied knowing who owned the drugs inside.
Court records cited in the complaint indicate Donahue has two prior third-degree controlled substance convictions and was on supervised release through the Minnesota Department of Corrections at the time of the alleged offenses.
If convicted, each first-degree controlled substance charge carries a maximum penalty of 40 years in prison and substantial fines. The complaint also notes a presumptive minimum sentence of 65 months.
The allegations contained in the criminal complaint are accusations only, and Donahue is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in court.