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State Patrol Using Traffic Cams and Cell Phones to Catch Drunk Drivers

According to the Associated Press, Minnesota’s Department of Transportation monitors over 500 cameras to observe traffic throughout the state, with most focusing on the Twin Cities and surrounding areas. More and more, the Minnesota State Highway Patrol is relying on this network of traffic cameras and citizens reporting drunk drivers on the road.

After a driver spots a suspected drunk driver and calls 911, the dispatcher uses the traffic cameras to locate the vehicle. Law enforcement officers are notified of the location and move in to stop the driver. The AP report notes that cell phone reports by other drivers result in around 20 arrests for driving while intoxicated (DWI) each day.

Last year, Minnesota State Highway Patrol officers received 42,000 complaints from drivers resulting in over 650 arrests for various traffic offenses, according to a Fox News report.

Serious Penalties

A drunk driving conviction can have serious consequences. Even first-time misdemeanor offenders can face up to 90 days in jail and fines up to $1,000.
Repeat offenders, however, face some of the most serious penalties, including mandatory minimum sentences. For a second offense within 10 years of a prior conviction, Minnesota statutes provide for a mandatory 30 days in jail. The minimum sentences increase with each subsequent offense:

  1. Third subsequent conviction within 10 years of a prior conviction: 90 days minimum incarceration, with at least 30 days to be served consecutively in a jail or local workhouse
  2. Fourth subsequent within 10 years of a prior conviction: 180 days incarceration, with at least 30 days to be served consecutively in a jail or local workhouse
  3. Fifth subsequent offense can result in up to one year with at least 60 days to be served consecutively in a jail or local workhouse

It may be possible to avoid the mandatory sentence, however, and be sentenced to a period of intensive probation. Even in this case, you may be required to spend some time in jail.

Working With an Attorney

If you have been arrested or face drunk driving charges, it is important to discuss your case with an experienced criminal defense attorney.

Max Keller image
Attorney Max Keller
Max Keller

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

Senior truck driver holding a wheel and looking through the window. DWI Affects CDL Holders

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.
Passenger is sitting on the back seat of the car and using smart phone app to rate a driver. DWI Affects Rideshare Drivers

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.
Two policemen are standing in front of the building's entrance door. Police Search Your Phone Without a Warrant

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.