LAWE2231 MN Criminal and Traffic Codes

This course is an overview of the Minnesota Criminal Code and Minnesota Traffic Laws. Emphasis is on coverage of statutes emphasized in Minnesota Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST) learning objectives. The course combines characteristics of two POST secondary learning attitudes; academic education and vocational-oriented training. The course will enhance both knowledge of criminal and traffic laws the student will use as an officer and understanding of how our laws are affected by case law.

Credits

3

Prerequisite

Admission into the Peace Officer Program

Course Requirements and Evaluation

Refer to Course Syllabus for detailed information regarding the requirements and evaluation standards for this course. The Course Syllabus will be distributed the first week of the course.

Learning Outcomes

The following outcomes will be addressed in the course:
Apply knowledge of criminal and traffic codes in the daily functions of a police officer
Demonstrate knowledge of MN criminal codes and traffic laws
Examine key terms defined in criminal and traffic laws of Minnesota
Justify the appropriate use of discretion by an officer
Differentiate between the penalty classifications from petty misdemeanors to felonies
Identify the difference between state statutes and city ordinances and their interrelationship
Select appropriate multiple counts for criminal acts and enhancements for repeat offenders
Apply MN Peace Officer mandated duties associated with specific state statutes
Identify MN statutes that apply to bias-motivated hate crimes
Differentiate between the elements of domestic abuse, assault, harassment and stalking
Distinguish between domestic-related court orders
Explain mandated reporting of suspected abuse to children and vulnerable adults
Discuss criminal liability for police officers
Interpret probable cause, criminal statutes and traffic laws
Analyze how traffic laws apply to driving conduct in traffic and impaired driving situations
Distinguish between types and classes of driver's license, endorsements, permits and exemptions
Summarize the different types of vehicle registration and insurance requirements
Apply appropriate MN traffic laws to traffic accident investigations

Text and References

A list of textbooks required for this course is available at the bookstore.

Course Scheduling

The scheduled hours of instruction include sixteen hours for each lecture credit, thirty two hours for each lab credit and forty hours for each credit of supervised occupational experience (SOE). Lecture credit may include formal or impromptu lectures, demonstrations or discussions with the entire class or with small groups or individuals. Refer to the Credit Details section of this course outline for the credit breakdown.

Accommodations Statement

Disability Services assists students with disabilities who need accommodations to access programs, services and college activities.  If this applies to you, please contact the DS Office on your campus to initiate the accommodations process. 
Brooklyn Park Campus - 763-488-2477
Eden Prairie Campus – 952-995-1544

Campus

Brooklyn Park Campus:  952-995-1300

Credit Details

lecture:

3

lab:

0