Authorities ID officer involved in Robbinsdale shooting

Published 10:03 am Tuesday, April 21, 2015

ROBBINSDALE — Authorities have identified the Robbinsdale police officer who shot and wounded an 18-year-old woman last week after she ignored orders to drop a knife.

Police announced Monday that Sgt. Thomas Rothfork was involved in the shooting of Tania Harris outside an apartment building last Thursday night after officers were called on a report of a fight involving at least two women.

A criminal complaint charging Harris with second-degree assault says responding officers saw Harris burst out of the door with a knife, begin chasing another woman and threaten to kill her.

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The complaint says an officer ordered Harris to stop and drop the knife, but she refused to comply, and the officer fired twice.

Rothfork is a 20-year veteran with the force. He has been placed on paid administrative leave pending an investigation.