As a noted criminal defense lawyer with deep roots in Minneapolis, our founding partner Joseph Tamburino regularly provides legal opinions for both local news outlets and national sources. Recently, CBS Minnesota asked him to weigh in on the recent fire near Bde Maka Ska, which destroyed an important and historic pavilion building.
On May 16th, 2019, a fire that broke out near the pavilion ultimately consumed the entire building, leaving the municipality with over $2 million in damages. After determining that 23-year-old Nouh Elmi had dumped hookah embers into the trashcans behind the pavilion that night, the police charged Mr. Elmi with a felony for “negligent fires to property valued at $2,500 or more.” This is a significant charge that can carry up to 3 years in prison, along with a $5,000 fine.
However, due to the value of the destroyed property, Attorney Joe Tamburino shared his surprise that the defendant was not given an even more serious charge. “It’s such a low charge for such devastating damage,” he said in the report. According to Attorney Tamburino, this charge will be unlikely to result in a prison sentence, and may only lead to community service.
Seek Counsel from an Experienced Defense Lawyer
When you need a committed defense against felony-level charges, Attorney Joe Tamburino and the entire team here at Caplan & Tamburino Law Firm, P.A. can stand by your side. With over a century of combined experience in a range of criminal defense cases, we have the skill and the knowledge to fight on your behalf – and increase your chances of securing a better outcome.
For more information about our legal services in Minneapolis, call (612) 444-5020 today!