Legal Question in Criminal Law in Minnesota

Gross Misdemeanor Charge

I was unlawfully arrested during a protest march. I was held in jail without family being contacted and was not able to make a phone call until 48 hrs later. They let me go with no charges. When I went back to get my property, the police office stated I would need to call back before Friday or I would have a warrant for my arrest. I am being charged with a gross misdemeanor for aiding in rioting during a RNC protest. They stated they had pictures of me. I was not part of this riot. I was cattle herded and forced into a cop car. I was not with a group, I was alone trying to get to my car. How do I fight this and will I go to jail?


Asked on 9/09/08, 6:12 pm

3 Answers from Attorneys
Nathan Hansen Nathan M. Hansen, Attorney at Law

Re: Gross Misdemeanor Charge

You will have to lawyer up and fight them. I was a delegate to the convention and am ashamed at the police tactics. Unfortunately, there is no easy way out of these charges, they simply must be fought. A gross misdemeanor can land you some jail time. Call me at six five one seven zero four ninety six hundred and I will be happy to speak with you.

Nathan Hansen

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Answered on 9/09/08, 11:12 pm
J. Chris Carpenter Harvey and Carpenter

Re: Gross Misdemeanor Charge

You can fight this by either hiring a lawyer or asking for the appointment of a public defender. But, you should fight this!

Herbert C. Kroon

Attorney at Law

Chesley, Kroon, Harvey & Carpenter

[email protected]

507--625/3000

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Answered on 9/10/08, 9:28 am
Maury Beaulier612.240.8005 Minnesota Lawyers

Re: Gross Misdemeanor Charge

I have had a number of inquires regarding the same issue over the past two weeks. It would appear that law enforcement indiscriminantly rounded up any persons in the area of protests or riots, held them until charges had to be filed, and then either charged or released them. In each case they indicated that surveillance footage was evidence of a crime. As yet, however, I have been provided with no such footage.

Your defenses are strong. The prosecution must prove that you were an active participant in the riot or unlawful assembly. Simply being present would not be sufficient.

The offense is a gross misdemeanor, punishable by up to 90 days in jail and a $3000 fine.

For a FREE consultation call 612.240.8005 or visit us online at criminal-law.tv

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Answered on 9/10/08, 3:00 pm


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