You’re Accused of Violating Minnesota Statute § 609.475. A Minnesota Criminal Defense Lawyer Reveals What’s at Stake.
Introduction
You never imagined you would be in this position. Now, you’re facing a criminal charge for impersonating a military service member, veteran, or public official. Perhaps it started as a misunderstanding, a bad joke that went too far, or a desperate attempt to gain a small advantage that has now spiraled out of control. The accusation on the charging document, referencing Minnesota Statute § 609.475, feels surreal and deeply unsettling. This isn’t just any charge; it’s an accusation of fraud and dishonesty, a label that can tarnish your reputation long after the court case is over.
You’re likely feeling a mix of fear, embarrassment, and anger. You’re worried about the judgment of your family, friends, and community. You’re concerned about having a criminal record, paying fines, or even facing jail time. Maybe you feel the charge is unfair, blown way out of proportion from what actually happened. You might have been wearing an old military jacket and a store clerk offered you a discount you didn’t ask for, or you made an off-hand comment that was misinterpreted. Now, the full weight of the Minnesota justice system is bearing down on you.
You do not have to carry this burden alone. As a criminal defense attorney, I have defended good people from all walks of life across the entire state of Minnesota—from the bustling courtrooms of Hennepin and Ramsey Counties to the communities of Duluth, Rochester, and St. Cloud. I understand that there are two sides to every story, and I am here to tell yours. My focus is on protecting your rights, your name, and your future from an allegation that threatens to define you. Together, we will confront this head-on and fight for the best possible outcome.
What Impersonating a Military Member or Public Official Actually Means in Minnesota
In Minnesota, a charge of impersonating a military member or public official is fundamentally a fraud crime. It’s about more than just telling a lie or pretending to be someone you’re not. To be guilty of this offense, the prosecutor must prove that you falsely held yourself out as having a specific status—like a soldier, a veteran, or a police officer—with the specific goal of wrongfully getting something of value. The law is designed to punish deceptive acts that lead to a tangible gain, not just harmless boasts or wearing a costume.
This means the state’s case hinges on your intent. What was your motive? Were you intentionally trying to trick someone into giving you money, property, or another concrete benefit? A Minnesota impersonation charge often arises from situations like trying to get a veteran’s discount at a store in Bloomington, soliciting donations for a fake cause in Minneapolis, or trying to talk your way out of a situation by pretending to be an official in St. Paul. Facing a Minnesota impersonation accusation is serious because it attacks your character and labels you as dishonest, a stigma that can be hard to overcome without a strong defense.
Minnesota Law on Impersonation — Straight from the Statute
The legal authority for the charge you are facing is located in the Minnesota Statutes. Understanding the exact language the state will use against you is the first step in deconstructing their case and building your defense. Every word in the statute matters, and any ambiguity can be used to your advantage.
The charge comes directly from Minnesota Statute § 609.475. Here is the precise wording of the law:
609.475 IMPERSONATING A MILITARY SERVICE MEMBER, VETERAN, OR PUBLIC OFFICIAL.
Whoever falsely impersonates an active or reserve component military service member, veteran, or public official with intent to wrongfully obtain money, property, or any other tangible benefit is guilty of a misdemeanor.
Breaking Down the Legal Elements of Impersonation in Minnesota
For the prosecution to secure a conviction, they must prove every single component of this crime beyond a reasonable doubt. If I can show that even one of these elements is not supported by the evidence, their case against you crumbles. My entire focus will be on challenging the state’s ability to prove each and every one of these points.
- False ImpersonationThe state must first prove that you actively and falsely represented yourself as someone you are not. This could be through words, actions, wearing a specific uniform, or presenting fake credentials. It must be a clear act of impersonation, not just a situation where someone else made a wrong assumption about you. If you were silent and someone offered you a benefit based on their own mistake, it will be very difficult for the state to prove you “falsely impersonated” anyone.
- A Specific Protected StatusThe impersonation must be of a specific type of person: an active or reserve military service member, a veteran of the armed forces, or a “public official.” While the military definitions are clear, the term “public official” can sometimes be vague. We can challenge whether the person you allegedly pretended to be—for instance, a low-level administrative employee—legally qualifies as a “public official” in the context of this statute. This legal argument could be key to your defense.
- Specific Intent to Wrongfully ObtainThis is the most critical element and often the weakest point in the prosecution’s case. They must prove that your sole purpose for the impersonation was to get something you weren’t entitled to. If you impersonated someone as a joke, as part of a performance, or for social reasons without seeking any tangible gain, you have not committed this crime. Proving what was in your mind is extremely difficult for the state, and this is where many cases can be won.
- Money, Property, or Other Tangible BenefitFinally, the state must prove you intended to obtain a “tangible benefit.” This means something real and valuable—cash, discounted goods, free services, or physical property. Vague benefits like gaining someone’s respect, getting attention, or simple social status do not count under this law. If no concrete benefit was sought or obtained, there is no crime. We will aggressively argue that what the state claims you were after does not meet the legal definition of a “tangible benefit.”
Penalties for an Impersonation Conviction in Minnesota Can Be Severe
While categorized as a misdemeanor, a conviction for impersonating a military member or public official carries consequences that can cast a long shadow over your life. This isn’t just a slap on the wrist. Minnesota law treats crimes of fraud and dishonesty seriously, and the penalties reflect that, aiming to punish the act and deter others. Understanding the potential Minnesota sentencing for impersonation is a critical step in preparing your defense.
Misdemeanor Conviction
A conviction under § 609.475 is a misdemeanor, punishable by a maximum of 90 days in jail and a $1,000 fine. In addition to these penalties, a judge can place you on probation for up to a year. While on probation, you would have to follow strict rules, which could include paying restitution for any benefit you received, completing community service, and having no same or similar offenses. If you violate any of these conditions, the judge can send you to jail to serve your sentence.
What Impersonation Looks Like in Real Life — Common Scenarios in Minnesota
These charges often arise from everyday situations where a line is crossed, sometimes unintentionally. The context surrounding the alleged act is crucial, as it can mean the difference between a criminal charge and a simple misunderstanding. You may recognize your own circumstances in these common Minnesota scenarios.
Seeing how these situations play out can help you understand how your actions might be viewed by a prosecutor and how we can begin to frame your defense.
The “Stolen Valor” Discount
A man in a Brooklyn Park home improvement store is wearing an old army-style jacket. When he gets to the checkout, the cashier asks, “Do you get our veteran’s discount?” He hesitates for a moment and then says “yes,” receiving 10% off his purchase. Even though he didn’t initiate the conversation, by accepting the discount with the knowledge that he was not a veteran, he has obtained a tangible benefit through a false impersonation, which could lead to a charge.
The Fake City Inspector
A resident in a St. Paul neighborhood is concerned about a neighbor’s new fence. A person shows up at the neighbor’s door, claims to be a “city code compliance officer,” and says the fence must be taken down unless an immediate “violation fee” is paid in cash. This person is using the false authority of a public official to wrongfully obtain money, a classic example of a prosecutable offense under this statute.
The Phony Fundraiser in Duluth
Outside a busy event near Canal Park in Duluth, a person is wearing a military-style uniform and holding a bucket, asking for donations for a “wounded warriors fund.” In reality, the fund is fake, and the person has never served in the military. They are using the honor associated with military service to intentionally and wrongfully obtain money from sympathetic passersby, a clear violation of the law.
The Online Impersonation
Someone creates a social media profile claiming to be a high-ranking official in the Eagan city government. They use this fake profile to contact local business owners, promising to “fast-track” permits and licenses in exchange for a “processing fee” sent via a cash app. This digital impersonation for financial gain is a modern twist on the statute and is just as illegal as doing it in person.
Legal Defenses That Might Work Against Your Impersonation Charge
Being charged does not make you guilty. The prosecutor has the entire burden of proving their case, and I am here to hold them to that high standard. When you are fighting an impersonation charge in Minnesota, there are numerous powerful defense strategies we can use to protect you. We will not simply accept the state’s version of events. We will investigate the facts, challenge the evidence, and find the holes in the prosecution’s argument.
Your defense needs to be custom-built for your specific situation. A charge that stems from a comment at a Maple Grove bar requires a different approach than one involving a fake ID in downtown Minneapolis. However, the goal is always the same: to show that the state cannot prove you are guilty of this crime. This often means focusing on your intent—or lack thereof—and demonstrating that your actions, even if ill-advised, were not criminal. How to fight impersonation charges in Minnesota often comes down to dismantling the element of fraudulent intent.
You Lacked the Intent to Defraud
This is the most powerful defense against this charge. The state must prove you impersonated someone for the purpose of getting a tangible benefit. We can argue your actions were motivated by something else entirely.
- It Was a Joke or Satire: Perhaps you were at a party and pretending to be a public official as a joke, with no intention of asking for or receiving anything of value. Context is everything. We can gather witness testimony to show that everyone present understood your actions were satirical and not a genuine attempt at fraud.
- No Wrongful Motive: You may have worn a uniform for a legitimate reason, such as for a theatrical performance, a historical reenactment, or a costume party. If someone mistakenly offered you a benefit, we can argue that you never had the “intent to wrongfully obtain” anything in the first place.
No “Tangible Benefit” Was Involved
The law is clear: the goal must be to obtain money, property, or another tangible benefit. If the benefit was intangible, the charge fails.
- Seeking Respect or Status: People sometimes impersonate others to gain social status, respect, or attention. While this may be dishonest, it is not a crime under this specific statute. We would argue that you were not seeking any physical or monetary gain, but were motivated by social factors, which fall outside the scope of the law.
- No Benefit Was Actually Obtained or Sought: We can demonstrate that you never actually asked for or received anything of value. For instance, if you were dressed as a soldier and someone offered you a free coffee, but you declined it, you never completed the act of “obtaining” a benefit.
This is a Case of Mistaken Identity
It is possible that you were simply misidentified as the person who committed the act, especially if the impersonation happened quickly or online.
- You’ve Been Falsely Accused: We can work to prove you were not the person responsible. This could involve finding alibi witnesses who can confirm you were elsewhere at the time of the incident, or analyzing surveillance footage to show that the impersonator was someone else. In online cases, we can investigate the digital trail to point to the real culprit.
The Alleged “Impersonation” Was Not False
In some rare cases, we can challenge the idea that the impersonation was truly false or that the status was not protected.
- Legitimate Claim to Status: Perhaps you are a veteran but have lost your official documentation. If you claimed veteran status, it was not a false impersonation, even if you couldn’t prove it on the spot. We would work to gather your service records to validate your claim and show that your statement was truthful.
- Not a “Public Official”: The state’s case may rely on a broad interpretation of “public official.” We can argue that the person you allegedly impersonated does not meet the legal definition, and therefore the statute does not apply to your case.
Minnesota Impersonation FAQs — What You Need to Know Now
Is it illegal to just wear a military uniform in Minnesota if I’m not in the military?
Simply wearing a uniform is not, by itself, illegal. The crime occurs when you wear it with the intent to wrongfully obtain a tangible benefit. Wearing a uniform for a costume party, a play, or for fashion purposes is not a crime under this statute.
Will I go to jail for a misdemeanor impersonation charge?
Jail time is possible—up to 90 days—but it is not mandatory. For a first-time offense, an experienced attorney can often negotiate a resolution that involves no jail time, such as probation, a fine, or community service. The strength of your defense is key.
Can this impersonation charge be dismissed?
Yes, a dismissal is an excellent outcome and one I frequently fight for. A case can be dismissed if there is insufficient evidence (especially regarding your intent), if your constitutional rights were violated, or through successful negotiations with the prosecutor.
What counts as a “tangible benefit”?
A tangible benefit is something concrete and valuable. This includes money, physical goods (like a discounted item), or free services (like free admission or a complimentary meal). It does not include intangible things like social respect, getting a date, or impressing friends.
Do I need a lawyer for a misdemeanor charge in Hennepin County?
Yes, absolutely. A misdemeanor conviction, especially for a crime involving dishonesty, creates a permanent criminal record. The Hennepin County court system is incredibly busy. An experienced private lawyer can give your case the attention it deserves and fight for a better outcome than you could achieve alone.
How is this different from a felony-level fraud crime?
This charge is a misdemeanor because it typically involves lower-value benefits. More extensive or high-value fraud schemes are often charged as felony Theft by Swindle. However, a conviction for any crime of dishonesty, misdemeanor or felony, is incredibly damaging.
What if someone offered me a discount without me asking?
This is a strong point for your defense. If you did not solicit the benefit, it becomes much harder for the prosecutor to prove you had the “intent to wrongfully obtain” it. Your passive acceptance, especially if it happened quickly, may not meet the criminal standard.
Can this charge be expunged from my Minnesota record?
Yes. If your case is dismissed, you can seek an expungement immediately. If you are convicted, you will have to wait a period of time after completing your sentence (typically two years for a misdemeanor) before you can petition the court to have the record sealed.
How long will a case like this take?
A misdemeanor case in Minnesota can often be resolved in a few months. However, if the case involves complex legal challenges or proceeds to a trial, it could take longer.
Will a conviction affect my job?
It very likely will. Employers are particularly wary of convictions for crimes involving dishonesty or fraud. It can make it very difficult to find or keep a job, especially in fields that require handling money, data, or interacting with the public.
What should I do if the police want to talk to me?
You should politely but firmly state, “I am exercising my right to remain silent, and I want to speak with a lawyer.” Do not try to explain your side of the story. Anything you say can be twisted and used against you. Contact an attorney immediately.
What is a “crime of moral turpitude?”
This is a legal term for a crime that involves dishonesty, fraud, or depravity. An impersonation conviction is a classic example. Such a conviction can have severe consequences for professional licenses and immigration applications because it speaks directly to your character.
Can I be charged for pretending to be a police officer?
Yes. A police officer is a “public official.” Falsely impersonating a police officer, especially to get someone to do something or to obtain a benefit, is a clear violation of this statute.
What if my impersonation was online?
The law applies equally to actions taken in person and online. Creating a fake social media profile to impersonate a veteran or official to solicit money or goods is a crime.
How can an attorney help me right now?
From day one, an attorney can take over all communication with the police and prosecutors, protecting you from saying something incriminating. I can appear in court on your behalf, begin gathering evidence, and start building the strategy to defend your case and protect your future.
What an Impersonation Conviction Could Mean for the Rest of Your Life
A conviction for a crime of dishonesty, even a misdemeanor, is a brand that can be incredibly difficult to remove. The collateral consequences of a conviction for impersonation in Minnesota can impact your life in profound and lasting ways, creating hurdles long after you’ve paid your fine or finished probation.
A Permanent Record of Dishonesty
This is the most damaging consequence. A conviction under § 609.475 is not just any crime; it’s considered a “crime of moral turpitude.” This specific label is a major red flag on background checks. Employers in virtually every field, from retail to finance, are hesitant to hire someone with a record of fraud. It suggests you are untrustworthy, a label that can cost you countless job opportunities for the rest of your life.
Devastation to Your Professional Career
If you have or are seeking a professional license—such as in nursing, real estate, accounting, law, or even commercial driving—a conviction for impersonation can be a career-ending event. Licensing boards have character and fitness standards, and a crime of dishonesty is often grounds for denying, suspending, or revoking a license. The career you have built or dreamed of could be gone in an instant.
Immigration Consequences
For non-citizens, a conviction for a crime involving moral turpitude can be catastrophic. It can lead to deportation, even if you are here legally as a permanent resident. It can also make you inadmissible, meaning if you leave the country, you may not be allowed to return. It can also be a significant barrier to ever obtaining citizenship.
Loss of Trust and Reputation
Beyond the legal and financial penalties, a conviction damages your most valuable asset: your reputation. It can strain relationships with family and friends and make it difficult to be seen as a trustworthy member of your community. The social stigma associated with a fraud conviction can lead to isolation and affect your mental and emotional well-being for years to come.
Why You Need a Tough, Experienced Minnesota Impersonation Attorney
When you are accused of a crime of dishonesty, your character is on trial just as much as your actions. You need a defender who will not only fight the facts of the case but who will also fight to protect your good name. Relying on an overworked public defender or, worse, trying to handle it yourself, is a gamble you cannot afford to take with your future.
A Private Lawyer Fights for You, Not the System
As your private attorney, my only obligation is to you. I am not trying to clear a massive caseload or appease a prosecutor. My entire focus is on achieving your goals. I have the time, resources, and dedication to conduct a thorough investigation, interview witnesses, file legal motions to challenge the state’s evidence, and give your case the personalized attention it needs to be successful. When your reputation is on the line, you deserve a defender who is fully in your corner.
Immediate Action Can Change Everything
The moments after you are charged are critical. The state is already building its case against you. We need to act faster. By retaining me immediately, I can intervene early with the prosecutor—sometimes before charges are even formally filed—to present your side of the story and highlight the weaknesses in their case. This proactive approach can lead to charges being reduced or even rejected entirely, saving you the stress and expense of a prolonged court battle.
I Know the Minnesota Courts, From Minneapolis to Rochester
Navigating the criminal justice system is about more than just knowing the law. It’s about knowing the people. I have built relationships and a reputation in courtrooms across Minnesota, from Hennepin County to Ramsey County, and in greater Minnesota cities like Duluth and Plymouth. I know the local prosecutors, the judges, and how they are likely to view your case. This local knowledge is an invaluable asset that allows me to craft a defense strategy tailored to the specific court you are in.
My Goal is to Get You the Best Result: A Dismissal, a Reduction, or a Win
My approach is aggressive, strategic, and aimed at results. I will meticulously analyze the evidence, with a laser focus on the element of “intent,” which is the soft underbelly of almost every impersonation case. My primary goal is to secure a full dismissal of the charges. If that is not possible, I will work to negotiate a resolution that keeps a conviction off your record, such as a diversion program or a stay of adjudication. And if the state refuses to be reasonable, I am always prepared to stand by your side and fight for a “not guilty” verdict at trial.