A gross misdemeanor can be charged for which of the following offenses?

A gross misdemeanor in Minnesota is defined as an offense that is more serious than a misdemeanor but less severe than a felony. False identification to a peace officer is classified as a gross misdemeanor because it undermines the role of law enforcement and can hinder public safety efforts.

This classification reflects the seriousness of presenting false information to a peace officer, which can impede investigations and create potential hazards for the community. The law aims to hold individuals accountable for actions that can disrupt or mislead lawful enforcement processes.

Assault without physical injury does not necessarily meet the threshold for a gross misdemeanor since it can often be classified as a lesser offense unless additional circumstances elevate the charge. Driving under the influence can result in a more severe charge, typically classified as a DWI which carries weighty penalties beyond gross misdemeanors. Theft under $500 is generally charged as a misdemeanor unless specific aggravating factors come into play, reinforcing why false identification to a peace officer stands out as an appropriate example of a gross misdemeanor in context.