Warrant issued after Bloomington man found guilty of murder leaves court hearing

MINNEAPOLIS -- A 28-year-old Bloomington man who was found guilty of murder left his court hearing and now has a warrant out for his arrest, according to Hennepin County Court records.

Last week, Michael James Harlan was found guilty of third-degree murder and second-degree assault in connection to a drug overdose death involving fentanyl in March 2021.

The guilty verdict was filed Thursday, the same day Harlan was scheduled to attend a court hearing determining his guilt. According to Hennepin County Court officials, Harlan was in court with his attorney when he left the courtroom and was not seen again. The court says his reason for leaving is unknown. 

Court records show after he failed to appear a warrant was issued and his cash or surety bond was forfeited.

Harlan has a previous conviction of first-degree controlled substance possession.