First person to be discharged from Minnesota Sex Offender Program

For the first time since its inception, the Minnesota Sex Offender Program will release its first patient. According to a report by the Minneapolis Star-Tribune, a three-judge panel in Ramsey County decided to grant a provisional discharge to a 64-year-old man, after there was no objection from prosecutors or the Department of Human Services.

The 64-year-old was convicted of the criminal sexual assault of a teenage boy in Hennepin County in the late 1980s, and he has been in the program since 1994. He had been living in a monitored residence at the Minnesota Security Hospital since 2009. After a formal discharge order is granted by the panel, he will move to a halfway house in Minneapolis.

Since he will be the first offender released from the program, the man will be closely monitored as he abides by a number of release conditions, including attendance at frequent Alcoholic Anonymous meetings, receiving counseling at a therapy program for male sex offenders, and wearing an electronic ankle-bracelet.

The Human Services Commissioner explained to the Star Tribune that while she initially opposed his release, the provisions set forth through the program were followed and a provisional discharge should be granted. She further explained that “While the law talks about assuring the public a ‘reasonable’ degree of protection, we will make sure the safeguards go far beyond… If he strays from the provisions we will pull him back immediately.”

Since it will be the first release under the program, it will ultimately be a test case for future offenders seeking a discharge, and may shape the way officials view the potential danger for patients to reoffend.

Source: Crookston Times, “Minn. Sex offender program to discharge 1st person,” Feb. 2, 2012

Max Keller has won countless jury trial cases involving misdemeanors and felonies, sex crimes, and DWI’s. He is a member of the Minnesota Society for Criminal Justice, which only allows the top 50 criminal defense attorneys in the state as members. Max is a frequent speaker at CLE’s and is often asked for advice by other defense attorneys across Minnesota.

Years of Experience: Approx. 20 years
Minnesota Registration Status: Active
Bar & Court Admissions: State of Minnesota Minnesota State Court Minnesota Federal Court 8th Circuit Federal Court of Appeals State of Maryland

What to Do If You Have Been Charged with a Criminal Offense

How a DWI Affects CDL Holders in Minnesota

Commercial motor vehicle drivers arrested or charged with driving while impaired (DWI) may need to know how a DWI affects CDL holders in Minnesota. You will lose your Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) for at least a year if you are convicted of DWI for the first time, and forever after a second conviction. The consequences go beyond the immediate legal implications of a DWI conviction. A CDL suspension or revocation will lead to job loss, difficulty finding employment, and serious financial challenges.

How a DWI Affects Rideshare Drivers in Minnesota

Knowing how a DWI affects rideshare drivers in Minnesota allows you to take the right steps to protect your license and livelihood. A DWI conviction will lead to suspension or cancellation of your driver’s license. Once you lose your license, you will be ineligible for a work permit required to work for rideshare companies as a driver. You may also face jail time, fines, or ignition interlock device (IID) installation, depending on the seriousness and number of related offenses on your record.

Can Police Search Your Phone Without a Warrant in Minnesota?

People under criminal investigation or whose phones have been seized by law enforcement officers may ask, “Can police search your phone without a warrant in Minnesota?” It’s illegal for police to search your phone without a warrant. However, there are exceptions to the warrant requirement. These exceptions include when you consent to the search, someone’s life is in danger, or there is an immediate risk of evidence destruction.