Hennepin Minnesota Jury Instruction — Possession Or Transfer Of Non-Tax-Paid Distilled Spirits refers to a set of guidelines provided to jurors in Hennepin County, Minnesota, regarding the possession or transfer of non-tax-paid distilled spirits. This instruction is intended to educate jurors on the legal framework surrounding the unlawful possession or transfer of untamed alcoholic beverages in the county. Possession or transfer of non-tax-paid distilled spirits is a serious offense under Minnesota law, and the Hennepin County courts aim to ensure that jurors fully understand the specific elements and implications of this crime. Jurors are provided with detailed instructions that outline the key aspects of the offense, the burden of proof required for a conviction, and the potential penalties that may be imposed. Specifically, the jury instruction highlights the following important points: 1. Definition of Non-Tax-Paid Distilled Spirits: The instruction clarifies what constitutes non-tax-paid distilled spirits, emphasizing that it refers to alcoholic beverages that have not had the appropriate taxes levied on them. 2. Possession: The instruction provides an explanation of what constitutes unlawful possession of non-tax-paid distilled spirits, including physical possession, constructive possession, and joint possession. It also outlines the necessary intent required for a conviction. 3. Transfer: Jurors are informed about the elements involved in the unlawful transfer of non-tax-paid distilled spirits. This includes the act of intentionally delivering, distributing, or selling such beverages without the proper payment of taxes. 4. Knowledge and Intent: The instruction emphasizes that jurors must consider whether the defendant had knowledge of the non-tax-paid status of the distilled spirits and whether they intended to possess or transfer them unlawfully. 5. Burden of Proof: Jurors are reminded that, in order to deliver a guilty verdict, they must be convinced beyond a reasonable doubt that the defendant knowingly possessed or transferred the non-tax-paid distilled spirits. 6. Penalties: The instruction provides jurors with information about the potential penalties associated with a conviction for possession or transfer of non-tax-paid distilled spirits. This may include fines, probation, mandatory alcohol education programs, or even incarceration. It is important to note that variations of this particular Hennepin County jury instruction may exist, depending on the specific circumstances or charges involved in a case. However, the fundamental principles outlined above are likely to be common to all versions of the instruction.