Minnesota GOP Calls for Resignation of Hennepin County Attorney Amid Controversy Over State Trooper Shooting Case

(KNSI) – Minnesota’s top Republican in the House is calling for Hennepin County Attorney Mary Moriarty to resign over accusations she “lied by omission” when making her decision to charge a state trooper with murder.

Cold Spring Representative Lisa Demuth responded Tuesday to the Minnesota Police and Peace Officers Association about interviews conducted in connection to the shooting death of Ricky Cobb II by Trooper Ryan Londregan.

According to the MPPOA, two new sworn declarations have been signed by trainers stating that Londregan acted lawfully to save the life of his partner. The MPPOA stated Moriarty selectively quoted cherry-picked expert testimony out of context from a 37-page interview transcript.

Demuth said via email, “The behavior we’ve seen from Mary Moriarty on this case is disqualifying and she should resign. These latest sworn declarations raise further questions about her integrity and her ability to carry out the duties of her office in a fair manner. She has pressed ahead with this case despite testimony from witnesses and experts hand-picked by her office, attempting to smear a hero who saved the life of his partner – all while her office hands out plea deals and light sentences to violent and repeat criminals who endanger the lives of the public and law enforcement.”

The GOP accused Moriarty of pursuing the case for political reasons. She is asking the governor to reassign the case. Demuth supports other law enforcement agencies’ requests to have the case looked at by an independent prosecutor who will let the facts speak for themselves.

On July 31st, a trooper saw a car drive past him on Interstate 94 without rear lights. After the car pulled over, the trooper found out the driver, Cobb II, was wanted on probable cause for a felony order-for-protection violation in Ramsey County. At that time, two more officers pulled up to assist.

Dashboard and body-worn camera footage show the three troopers approaching Cobb II’s car and repeatedly requesting him to step out. Two troopers then opened the door and attempted to remove him physically. At that time, the video shows Cobb II putting the car in gear and driving away while the officers were partially inside.

Londregan fired his handgun, hitting Cobb II. The two troopers were knocked to the ground. Troopers chased Cobb II’s vehicle for a quarter mile to where it crashed. They started to give medical aid, but he died at the scene. Both troopers who were dragged were treated and released for minor injuries.

The Cobb family announced they’re filing a class action lawsuit against Londregan.

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