Minnesota mayor receives reduced drunk driving sentence, keeps job

A Minnesota mayor recently received a reduced sentence from 60 days in jail to three days of community service, following an arrest for drunk driving. The man struck two cars while driving in the Minneapolis metro area on Interstate 394 before being stopped by police. Having avoided incarceration the mayor should be able to continue to perform his duties, and according to a report in the Star Tribune does not intend to step down.

The mayor was also fined $100.00 for having an open alcoholic beverage at the time, a bottle of vodka. The drug test on the scene registered him as having a blood alcohol level of 0.24 but the official test while he was in custody showed a level of 0.12. The legal blood alcohol limit in Minnesota is 0.08.

When asked to explain his behavior, the Minnesota mayor cited various severe problems that had occurred in his life, including several deaths in his family (including two murders) and an upcoming business trip that was causing an elevated level of stress and concern.

The judge hearing the case remarked that she sees a great deal of first time drunk drivers in her court only once – most are too scared or embarrassed to attempt to drive intoxicated again, explaining her reduced sentence.

Many arrested for drunk driving are not repeat offenders who have been arrested and brought into a court room before, rather it is often the first serious interaction with law enforcement and the criminal justice system. It is important to clearly understand your rights, the charges against you, and the potential consequences that can go beyond just the sentence from the court.

Source: Star Tribune “Mankato mayor avoids jail time” Abby Simons, April 5, 2011

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.