Though Minnesota has harsh penalties for drug-based offenses, recent political trends indicate a nationwide shift toward decriminalization may be on the horizon.
Under the First Step Act which instigates prison reforms, nearly 2,400 crack cocaine offenders charged with federal crimes have received sentence reductions.
A recent decision by the Minnesota Supreme Court states the government must disclose non-identifying information regarding a police officer's source of information that leads to arrest.
Minnesota law enforcement has issued warnings to the public about a new street drug called “fire” with deadly consequences for users and people who come in contact with the drug.
In Minnesota, the sale, distribution, and possession of illegal drugs is a felony offense, but possession does not always result in a criminal conviction. In some cases, charges can be dismissed when search and seizure laws are violated.
There are many controversial aspects of civil forfeiture in Minnesota. In addition to padding the budgets of law enforcement agencies and prosecuting attorneys, asset seizure may impose unfair penalties beyond sentencing for criminal behavior.