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Charges are dismissed against Robertsons

By Chuck Hunt - Editor | Sep 1, 2024

All charges against Scott Robertson, and his son Jacob Robertson, both of Winnebago, have been dismissed.

Both Robertsons were facing several felony charges dealing with their being accused of unlawfully growing cannabis plants on their properties in Winnebago.

A document submitted in Faribault County District Court by County Attorney Cameron Davis stated that “the State of Minnesota hereby dismisses, without prejudice, all counts herein pursuant to Rule of Criminal Procedure 30.01.”

It goes on to state that “After continued investigation following the defendant’s arrest on Feb. 8, 2024, and after review of all evidence in the State’s possession, the State believes it is presently unable to prove, beyond a reasonable doubt that the defendant violated criminal cannabis cultivation laws by cultivating more than 16 plants that meet the legal definition of cannabis under applicable statutes.”

Back on July 24, a plea deal between the County Attorney and the defendants to reduce the charges had been rejected by Faribault County District Court Judge Troy Timmerman.

Scott Robertson, the former mayor of Winnebago, said in a statement that he and his son, along with their legal partners appreciate the willingness of the county law enforcement and County Attorney “for the rather timely dismissal to this unfortunate and uncomfortable situation.”

He added, “We look forward to getting on with our lives and businesses without this incident hanging over our heads.”

Robertson calls the day they were arrested the worst day of his life. But he adds that he feels no ill will to law enforcement officials or others.

“I am truly sorry for putting Winnebago in the limelight because of this incident,” Robertson told the Faribault County Register. “Unfortunately there were some discrepancies that evolved in the last six and a half months about this case, but I am sure that is the norm.”

Robertson also said he and his son, along with their other business partners, plan to continue to be involved in the cannabis business and they have applied for a state license under the new cannabis laws that take effect on Jan. 1, 2025.

Robertson also said he may run as a write-in candidate for mayor of Winnebago in the Nov. 5 election.

“I resigned as mayor because I wanted to do what was best for Winnebago,” Robertson said. “But I feel that I did not accomplish everything I wanted to do as mayor. I left some unfinished business.”

Robertson finished by adding, “We as a family are moving on from this episode and no more looking back. But rather looking ahead to brighter days and times to come.”