Scope
Minn. Stat. 611.32 subd.2 requires law enforcement agencies to immediately make contacts to obtain a qualified interpreter whenever a person who is handicapped in communication is apprehended or arrested for a crime. An arrested person has the right to an interpreter to explain all charges filed against the person and to explain all procedures relating to the person's detainment and release. The interpreter will also assist with any other necessary communications (arrangements for medical attention, etc.).
When arresting a person who is deaf or hard of hearing who communicates through sign language, the officer shall immediately refer to the LEP Guide located on MPD Net under Manuals and Guides for specific contracted City vendors and arrange for a sign language interpreter to interpret for the arrestee at the place of detention. Upon arrival at the place of detention, detention center personnel shall be informed that the person is deaf or hard of hearing and that a sign language interpreter will arrive to communicate with the arrestee. This notification shall be recorded on the arrest report. Officers do not have to wait at the detention center for the interpreter to arrive, however should request that they are notified when the interpreter has arrived.
Definitions
Refer to the Commonly Used Terms page for general definitions.
- LEP Guide: The LEP Guide is a document for internal use only, that lists contracted City vendors who provide interpretation and translation services to the MPD. This document contains access codes and information that employees will need to give vendors for billing and can be found on MPD Net under "Manuals and Guides" or "Frequently Used".
- Limited English Proficiency: Designates individuals whose primary language is not English and who have a limited ability to read, write, speak, or understand English. LEP individuals may be competent in certain types of communication (e.g. speaking or understanding), but still be LEP for other purposes (e.g. reading or writing). Similarly, LEP designations are context specific. An individual may possess sufficient English language skills to function in one setting, but may find these skills are insufficient in other situations.