Minneapolis Man Facing Dakota County Drug Charges

A Minneapolis man is facing drug charges in Dakota County after authorities say he sold cocaine to an undercover informant in Burnsville.

Julian Michael Davis, 56, is charged with first-degree drug sales, which carries a maximum penalty of 30 years in prison and a $1 million fine.

According to the criminal complaint, a confidential informant contacted the Dakota County Drug Task Force earlier this month and reported that Davis was willing to sell cocaine. The informant described Davis, and agents checked state records and confirmed his identity.

On July 19, the informant made arrangements to purchase a quarter-ounce of cocaine from Davis at a restaurant  on West Frontage Road in Burnsville. The informant told agents that the cocaine would cost $420, and they provided government buy funds for the informant to purchase the drugs.

Davis arrived at the restaurant, which was under surveillance by task force agents, and saw him greet the informant. They left the restaurant together, and shortly afterward the informant turned over a pill bottle containing more than 7 grams of cocaine.

On Tuesday, the informant told agents that arrangements had been made to trade a quarter-pound of marijuana to Davis in exchange for cash and another quarter-ounce of cocaine. This time the informant arranged to meet Davis at a restaurant on West Burnsville Parkway.

Agents again kept the restaurant under surveillance and saw Davis arrive, park his van and approach the informant’s car, carrying a briefcase. He got into the informant’s car, and shortly afterward the informant gave a signal, indicating that the transaction had occurred.

Davis was arrested, and agents seized 7 grams of cocaine, the marijuana and a business card with Davis’ name on it from his car. They also seized $1,100 in cash.

Davis is free on bond. An omnibus hearing in his case is scheduled for Aug. 22 in Dakota County District Court in Hastings.