Minnesota Court Requires Retreat in Self-Defense Cases

The Minnesota Supreme Court ruled in a 4-2 decision that individuals must retreat if 'reasonably possible' before using deadly force in self-defense, even when threatened. This ruling came from the case of Earley Romero Blevins, who brandished a machete at a light rail station in Minneapolis after being threatened with a knife. The court upheld his conviction for felony second-degree assault, stating that video evidence showed Blevins had ample opportunity to retreat. The decision has sparked debate, with dissenting justices calling it 'unprecedented' and 'inimical to both humanity and law.' Minnesota's ruling contrasts with the 'stand your ground' laws in at least 28 other states, which do not require retreat if the individual is lawfully present.