Former ANC Commissioner’s Trial to Start in January

Steven Posniak of Tenleytown, the former ANC Commissioner accused of setting the huge Ham Lake forest fire in Minnesota, testified at a hearing that he was questioned during the fire and has known he was a suspect since May 8, 2007. He was not indicted until October of this year. The fire burned more than 70,000 acres and destroyed about 150 structures.

Posniak was also questioned May 5 and 6, 2007. Lawyers are arguing that statements made then should be thrown out because Posniak did not know he was a suspect and was not read his rights. He is accused of leaving a burning campfire.

According to the AP, Posniak's trial will begin in U.S. District Court in Duluth next month. City Desk spoke briefly with Posniak, who notably led a fight against Metro's plan to cut bus routes, following his indictment. He referred questions to his lawyer.

Tags: Ham Lake fire, Minnesota, Steven Posniak