Search Warrants Can Now Be Processed Electronically in Minnesota

Since the electronic transition began in October, 2,121 warrant applications have been filed and processed

ST. PAUL, Minn. – The Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension announced the eSearch Warrant application, which is now available to law enforcement agencies statewide.

“Before eSearch Warrants, a peace officer would write a search warrant application and then drive it to the judge for review, said BCA Superintendent Drew Evans. “Making this process electronic is particularly beneficial for after-hours warrant applications related to DWI investigations.”

The eSearch Warrant, allows a peace officer to complete and submit an electronic search warrant to a judge on any day at any hour.

Judges will receive a notification about a pending application, then logs into the system to review the document. The judge will then connect with the peace officer by phone to “swear in” the officer, and finally, the judge will either issue a warrant or reject the application.

The system was developed and prioritized in light of recent court decisions requiring search warrants for DWI blood or urine tests; however, electronic search warrants can be used for any type of crime.