The Minnesota Court of Appeals upheld the dismissal of DWI charges against a man who was arrested for operating a Segway while under the influence. The court held that a Segway is not a motor vehicle under Minnesota law and stated that “excluding the operation of Segways from the DWI statutes avoids an unreasonable and… Read more »
MN Supreme Court: Knowledge of possession required for firearm possession convictions
Today, in State v. Ndikum, the Minnesota Supreme Court affirmed the Court of Appeals holding that knowledge of possession of a pistol is an element of the crime of possession of a pistol in public. Mr. Ndikum, an attorney in Minneapolis, was originally charged with felony possession of a dangerous weapon within a courthouse complex… Read more »
Minnesota Appeals: Time restrictions for post-conviction relief
In a decision filed today in the Minnesota Supreme Court case of Colbert v. State of Minnesota, the Court affirmed the dismissal of the petition as the claims raised were untimely. This is not a particularly noteworthy case, but it is a good illustration of the harsh consequences of failing to challenge convictions and appeals… Read more »
Court upholds the right to film government officials
Simon Glik openly recorded video and audio of three Boston, MA police officers arresting a young man after Glik believed he was witnessing excessive force. Glik summarily arrested and charged for alleged violations of Massachusetts wiretap laws, disturbing the peace, and aiding in the escape of a prisoner. All charges were eventually dismissed through motions… Read more »