BEMIDJI — An obstruction charge has been dismissed for a Bemidji pastor as long as he obeys the law in the next year.

Rev. Bob Kelly, pastor of the People’s Church, appeared in Beltrami County District Court Tuesday where his attorney argued for dismissal.

Kelly was charged last November after arguing with police over the arrest of a woman who had entered the church. Police said the woman was trying to avoid arrest on a probation drug violation. Kelly argued police were overzealous and that the church should be respected as a haven for those who are suffering, including the drug addicted.

Kelly told the judge the woman who was arrested wasn’t a violent felon and didn’t warrant the police response that day.