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A North Branch man who was injured when police discharged firearms while apprehending him as he ignored admonitions to drop a large knife, has been given a stayed sentence and five years’ probation.  If Erik Hammer, 32,  remains law abiding, participates in random substance and alcohol tests, has no contact with a woman whose protection order he violated, and follows through on what healthcare professionals advise— he won’t serve the 28 month stayed sentence.

Hammer entered guilty pleas in November 2023 to violating a domestic abuse, no contact order and to second degree assault. Charges related to fourth degree assault of a peace officer were dismissed.  

He was reported to 9-1-1 September 30, 2022,  as being armed with a large knife or machete, on property in North Branch in violation of a protection order.  Hammer reportedly advanced on law enforcement units when they arrived.  Two North Branch officers fired rifles and a deputy used less than lethal ammunition when Hammer reportedly did not heed surrender orders.  

The Isanti County Attorney received the outside investigative results from the state Bureau of Criminal Apprehension and concluded the law enforcement personnel use of force in this incident was justified.

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