Minnesota is no exception to having specific criminal laws aimed to punish attempts to evade police officers in a motor vehicle. Intended to create a deterrent for trying to escape or make an officer’s investigation more difficult, Minnesota statutes provide for punishments that can be added onto the primary crime or be levied even if the person was originally only wanted for questioning and not arrest. If you have been charged with fleeing the police and are unsure of what to do next, give Criminal Lawyer Minnesota, Gerald Miller, a call to help you through this confusing time.
A driver may be charged with fleeing a police officer in a motor vehicle if the individual increases their speed, turns off their headlights or taillights, fails to stop or uses other means to evade to police after the officer signals the driver to stop.
Fleeing the Police Consequences
In Minnesota, fleeing police is a felony and can be punished with a fine of up to $5,000 and up to three years of incarceration.
However, if someone gets hurt as a result of the flee, the penalty increases up to seven years’ incarceration and $14,000.
Similarly, if someone is killed, the driver can face up to 40 years’ incarceration and $80,000 in fines.
Fleeing the Police Driver’s License Sanctions
Upon receipt of a criminal complaint or indictment for fleeing a peace officer in a motor vehicle, the Department of Public Safety (DPS) will suspend your driving privilege for one year. Additionally, no limited license will be issued.
Upon receipt on a criminal conviction for fleeing a police officer, the DPS will revoke your driving privileges as follows:
- First offense = 1 year
- Second or subsequent offense = 3 years
- Offense resulting in substantial bodily harm = 5 years
- Offense resulting in great bodily harm = 7 years
- Offense resulting in death = 10 years
The Difference Between Substantial and Great Bodily Harm
- Substantial bodily harm is an injury which causes a temporary but serious disfigurement or fracture.
- Great bodily harm is an injury which creates a high chance of death or permanent disfigurement.
Should I Speak with a Criminal Lawyer Minnesota?
If you need answers to questions surround a fleeing the police offense or any other DWI/DUI, criminal or traffic violation charge, give Criminal Lawyer Minnesota, Gerald Miller, a call and set up a free consultation. He can review your case and help you navigate your next steps.
