St. Paul Reporter

Representative Bidal Duran (R–Bemidji) has criticized a new policy announced by Hennepin County Attorney Mary Moriarty, under which her office will stop prosecuting cases that arise from low-level traffic stops.

Duran issued a statement condemning the decision: “This policy is beyond reckless. It is dangerous, irresponsible, and a slap in the face to every Minnesotan who has been begging for safer communities. At a time when violent crime continues to plague Minneapolis, Mary Moriarty has once again chosen to side with criminals instead of victims. Her decision strips law enforcement of one of their most effective tools to get guns, drugs, and repeat offenders off the streets. That is not justice. It is nothing more than a white flag from her office and a complete and total surrender to those who violate the law.”

He continued: “Let’s be clear. This is the same prosecutor who has made headlines for offering lenient plea deals in violent cases, letting race play a factor in deciding charges, and undermining the very justice system she is supposed to uphold. Now, on her way out the door, she has handed criminals yet another gift at the expense of public safety. Families who once came to Minneapolis to enjoy a night out, to cheer on the Vikings or Twins, or to shop and dine in the city will continue to stay away as long as leaders like Moriarty put their ideology above their duty.”

Duran also said: “Minnesotans have been loud and clear. They want accountability. They want consequences for criminals. They want to know that their families can be safe in their own neighborhoods. Mary Moriarty’s actions show she has no intention of listening. That is why this policy will not stand. The people of Minnesota will not tolerate prosecutors who abandon their responsibilities and gamble with public safety in order to carry out their personal ideological goals.”