Police accuse former Minnesota Viking of identity theft

Vikings fans in Minneapolis may remember Michael Bennett, the Vikings first-round draft choice in 2001. For five years, Bennett entertained fans as a running back, but now he is the subject of a federal investigation on identity theft. Though police have said that he’s confessed to his criminal charges, it is not entirely clear that he had a chance to speak to his attorney before talking with police.

The 33-year-old ex-Viking was arrested in April when FBI investigators claim that he altered a financial statement that said he had $9 million. Agents have said that Bennett was trying to get a $200,000 loan from a financial services store that was being staked-out by the FBI. The former Viking entered the store with a bank statement that apparently said he had $9 million of collateral. The statement did have his name on it and officers claim that Bennett immediately confessed to altering it.

The Star Tribune reports that the moment Bennett tried to collect the loan, he was arrested and confessed. It is unknown, however, if Bennett was read his Miranda rights and whether he realized that he had the ability to consult with an attorney before talking with police. Everyone who is taken into custody has the right to ignore police questioning and keep quiet. They also can interrupt any interrogation and request an attorney and officers must respect these wishes. The problem is, not everyone knows they have these rights and so an arresting officer is supposed to remind suspects of them.

When they don’t, it is sometimes possible for a confession to be thrown out. In this case, it remains to be seen what will happen with Bennett’s supposed confession.

Source: Star Tribune, “Ex-Vikings running back Bennett jailed in ID theft,” Paul Walsh, May 1, 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.