Yesterday, a Houston County jury found Elizabeth Sanness not guilty of five criminal charges, four of which involved the use of a firearm. Ms. Sanness was charged with Felony Assault in the Second Degree-Use of a Firearm, Felony Stalking with a Firearm, Felony Threats of Violence While Brandishing a Firearm, Gross Misdemeanor Domestic Assault-Use of a Firearm, and Misdemeanor Domestic Assault.
During the three-day trial, the allegations by the State were put forward by three witnesses who testified that Ms. Sanness came to their residence and threatened them with a firearm. The motive, as advanced by the witnesses, was that Ms. Sanness was angered by two of the witnesses riding their dirt bikes near Ms. Sanness’ residence in rural Spring Grove. However, the credibility of the State’s witnesses came under fire as the trial progressed. Ms. Sanness took the stand in her own defense and provided a different and more believable version of events. The jury deliberated for approximately three hours before finding Ms. Sanness not guilty of all charges.
Ms. Sanness was represented by Grant Borgen of Bird, Stevens & Borgen, P.C.