Legal Question in Criminal Law in Minnesota

Is it legal for police to do...

I was pulled over and am being charged with d.a.r. and no proof of insurance... Now here's my question; Is it legal for a police officer to get into the vehical and drive the vechical to the impound lot? To my knowledge, they cannot operate the vehical without the owners permission to do so, the car must be towed to the impound lot. Is that correct?


Asked on 3/23/08, 7:06 am

1 Answer from Attorneys
Reid Brandborg

Re: Is it legal for police to do...

I am not sure whether it is legal or not. But two things occur to me. First, the officer driving you car after the fact is not going to be a defense to the DAR or the No Ins. Second, the officer probably saved you $50-$100 in tow bill. So unless there is more to the story (i.e. officer damaged the car) I don't see the significance.

As far as the charges go, you do have to have knowledge for DAR. Meaning you have to known or have had reason to know that you were revoked. Other than that, these charges are easy for the State to prove.

I would be happy to look over your ticket with you if you call my office this week.

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Answered on 3/23/08, 12:44 pm


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