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Based on his review of the investigative file developed by the state Bureau of Criminal Apprehension, Isanti County Attorney Jeff Edblad has determined the “use of force’ displayed by North Branch Police officers and a county sheriff’s sergeant was justified in connection to a suspect being shot in September 2022.  The Isanti prosecutor had agreed to process the case to avoid any conflict of interest involving the Chisago County attorney’s office.  

Isanti County Attorney Edblad says he could find “no criminal liability.”

The actions taken by law enforcement were acceptable under state statutes that protect a peace officer in circumstances where they fear death or great bodily harm.

According to the recap of the September 30, 2022 suspect-shooting at an address on Oak Ridge Court in North Branch,  a North Branch Officer fired his rifle twice at the suspect.  A sheriff’s sergeant fired a less-than-lethal weapon (‘beanbags’) at the suspect.  North Branch Officer Lawson’s shots reportedly struck the suspect in the legs and abdomen.  The suspect also sustained bruising around the waist area from the less-than- lethal rounds discharged by Sgt. Mott.

The suspect, Erik Hammer, was provided tourniquets and given medical care until EMS arrived.

Hammer’s mother and the woman residing at the incident address,  were in phone contact with Hammer and sharing those  messages with responding law enforcement that night.

A total of five officers gathered outside the home after a call that Hammer was on the property acting reckless, was wearing a bulletproof vest and carrying a large sword.   Hammer was allegedly attempting entry to an Oak Ridge Court home in violation of an Order for Protection. Local authorities told BCA investigators they were knowledgable of this address and the parties involved from previous experiences.  Police had responded another time to a report about Hammer, allegedly with an axe, according to the BCA investigation.

It was learned through text messages that Hammer made comments about suicide and he possessed a large knife/samurai style sword that evening.  

According to the BCA materials, when law enforcement encountered Hammer moving about the grounds, he was ordered to set the sword on the ground and he did not.  He advanced towards the officers and use of force ensued.

Hammer, 31, faces misdemeanor charges for violation of the protection court order and two felony charges for assault with a dangerous weapon and committing a crime while wearing a bulletproof vest.

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