The bill amends Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 609.4751, to increase the criminal penalties for impersonating a peace officer. Under the new provisions, individuals who falsely impersonate a peace officer with the intent to mislead others will be charged with a felony, facing potential imprisonment for up to two years and fines of up to $4,000. Additionally, if the impersonation occurs while committing another crime, the penalties increase significantly, with offenders facing up to five years of imprisonment and fines of up to $10,000.

Furthermore, the bill introduces harsher penalties for repeat offenders. If an individual violates the impersonation law within five years of a previous violation, they will be charged with a felony, facing imprisonment for up to ten years and fines of up to $20,000. The amendments aim to strengthen public safety by deterring impersonation of law enforcement officials and ensuring that those who commit such acts face more severe consequences.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 609.4751