Sheriff’s Office: Robbinsdale officer justified in shooting

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04/14/21

Hennepin County investigators have cleared a Robbinsdale police officer who shot and injured a woman armed with a knife April 16. It was a case in which some residents said too much force was used.

A bystander used a cell phone to record the aftermath of the officer-involved shooting in the 3700 block of Hubbard Avenue. A Hennepin County Sheriff's Office investigation says Sgt. Thomas Rothfork acted appropriately when he shot 18-year-old Tania Harris. Rothfork is a 20-year police veteran.

Police also released still pictures taken from a squad car's video camera. The first picture shows a woman brushing past the officer. Police say she was fleeing a woman who had just come out of the apartment building yelling threats and carrying a knife. The second picture shows Harris a few feet from the officer still holding the knife, even though police say she had been told to drop it.

When Harris got within five to 10 feet of the officer, Sgt. Rothfork fired twice, hitting Harris in the abdomen. Police say it all happened in a matter of five to six seconds.

Harris survived her injuries and was charged with 2nd-degree assault. A trial date is set for Sept. 21.

Hennepin County authorities said the shooting was justified under state law, which allows officers to use deadly force to protect the officer or someone else from death or great bodily harm.

Mike Johnson, reporting
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