Legal Question in Criminal Law in Minnesota

So.. I was out with a friend testing our new paintball markers on public land at least a mile away from the nearest house and more than out of range of the closest trails. He showed up and apparently did not keep his marker in a bag which someone saw and called the police.

When the police arrived we were not firing the markers and mine was still un-used in the case. My paintball pistol however was laying in the grass out of my backpack.

Just to clarify we were not close to anyone and had no intention of causing harm or scaring others.

Long story short EVERYTHING I had on me was confiscated including my main marker (about $1000 worth of stuff) my vest (~$400) my paintball pistol (~$300) and my backpack with a few personal items (~$200).

On my citation it lists "Ord-Guns-Shooting/Carrying Uncase (5-6-1-b)

This h happened in Minnesota

I was wondering what sort of fines I should expect.

Also was the confiscation of items such as my vest and backpack justified.

Obviously I would like to get my things back at least, considering they total at least $1900-$2000.

I would like to get the markers back but if that is not possible is there a way to get the vest and backpack back?

It should be noted I have NO prior anything on my record, and am 20 years old.

I do have a court date on June 16th.

Someone suggested that I work my way through phone calls and talk directly to the prosecutor that will be handling my case. Would this be a good idea or help at all?

Mostly though how can I get my $2000 worth of stuff back?!!?!


Asked on 5/15/10, 12:59 am

1 Answer from Attorneys
Nathan Hansen Nathan M. Hansen, Attorney at Law

Talk to and retain a lawyer. Don't get a mark on your record for something that doesn't sound like a crime. Sounds like BS, and the cops stole your stuff.

Nathan Hansen

651-704-9600

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Answered on 5/20/10, 11:36 am


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