Kittson County ( trfnews.i234.me ) – The release of a Kennedy woman’s mental health records was at the center of a Kittson County District Court hearing on Wednesday, September 3. The hearing is part of the ongoing murder case against 23-year-old Jordan Carol Hanson.
Hanson faces two counts of felony second-degree murder in the March 13 death of 43-year-old Justin Esparza of Hallock. One charge alleges she killed him without premeditation. The other alleges she caused his death while committing second-degree assault with a dangerous weapon. Hanson remains held at the Pennington County Jail on behalf of Kittson County.
Defense Seeks Records
Hanson’s attorneys requested records from Kittson County Social Services related to her mental health. They said Hanson signed a release for the information, but there is a fee for the copies. The defense asked the court to waive the fee. Prosecutors argued the state would not normally have access to such records and expressed concern about the request.
Judge Tamara Yon took the matter under advisement and said she would issue a decision quickly.
Background of the Case
According to the complaint, Hanson’s family contacted authorities on March 13. They reported that Hanson had told them she shot Esparza at his home in Hallock. When deputies arrived, they found Esparza dead with a gunshot wound to the head. A handgun and spent casing were found near his body.
Law enforcement arrested Hanson shortly after at her mother’s home. Relatives told officers she appeared delusional from drug use. During questioning, Hanson made several incoherent statements. She allegedly admitted to shooting Esparza but also made unrelated claims that did not make sense.
Next Steps
The court will rule on whether Hanson’s defense can obtain her mental health records without paying the copying fee. Her trial remains ongoing as both sides prepare their cases.
For more information on Minnesota’s second-degree murder statute, visit the Minnesota Legislature website.
I’m Chris Harper reporting for TRF News.
