Police: Drunken Man Tells Officers He Can't Remember Eagan Business Break-Ins

A Minneapolis man arrested for breaking into four Eagan businesses told investigators he drank seven beers earlier that night and had no memory of committing the burglaries, according to police.

Stephen Daniel Gifford, 48, faces three felony counts of third-degree burglary and one felony count of first-degree criminal damage to property following the incident, which took place on April 30. If convicted on a single burglary charge, Gifford could face five years in prison and $10,000 in fines.

Eagan police were dispatched to a burglary alarm at 11 p.m. at a restaurant located on Rahncliff Road, according to a criminal complaint issued by the Dakota County Attorney's Office. Police arrived at the restaurant, and found a smashed glass door.

Police canines brought to the area located a man—later identified as Gifford—walking near Cliff Road and Scott Trail. Police say the man ignored officers' commands, and was eventually arrested.

Following the arrest, police learned that three other businesses, including a retail store, a bakery and a salon had been damaged by attempted forced entry or broken into that evening.

At the time of the arrest, police say Gifford had small scratches on his hands, glass in his shoe, and shards of glass stuck in the soles of his shoes. Police also found $97 in bills and a large amount of change in his pockets.

Investigators also learned that the tread of Gifford's shoes matched footprints found inside the retail business.

When questioned, Gifford allegedly told police that he drank seven glasses of beer at a local bar while watching a hockey game, then walked back to his hotel.

Police say Gifford told officers that he did not remember damaging any glass doors or windows, but had a traumatic brain injury from a car accident and "does stupid things" when he drinks. Gifford also told police he had been released from prison two weeks prior to the incident.