The state Court of Appeals has sided with a Rastafarian, ruling that his right to religious expression trumps his conviction in Ramsey County District Court of a drug paraphernalia offense for carrying a glass pipe.
Judge Jill Flaskamp Halbrooks wrote that the teenager has a "genuinely held belief in possessing a cannabis pipe." Therefore, Halbrooks continued, the prosecution had "failed to meet its burden" of showing that it had a "compelling state interest" in enforcing the statute in this case.
Paul Walsh
More from Star Tribune
More from Star Tribune
More from Star Tribune
More from Star Tribune
More from Star Tribune
More from Star Tribune
More From Star Tribune
More From Local
Variety
An infamous heist put this North Woods town in the global spotlight. Nervous breakdowns and Hollywood deals ensued.
The reporter who dug up the dirt, the museum head who took the heat and the community forever changed by the ruby slipper theft.
Local
Six Edina residents explain why they're running for the Hennepin County Board
A special primary April 30 will narrow the field from six to two before a special election May 14; they'll represent a district that includes Edina, Hopkins, Minnetonka, Wayzata and other west metro communities.
High Schools
Edina sophomore two-sport standout on recruiting: 'Gotten a little busy'
Mason West quarterbacked the Hornets to the Class 6A football final and starred on the school's state-title winning hockey team. The 6-6 standout also wants you to know about how he sees himself.
Local
Minneapolis Farmers Market pares back hours for 2024 season
The market, which ran daily from May to October last year, will be open Wednesday through Sunday.
West Metro
Body camera video shows Minnetonka man repeatedly shooting at deputies before dying in firefight
"Suspect is down in the yard, he was firing at us again, we are giving him commands at this time," one deputy said.