State leaders in Minnesota and the city of Minneapolis reached an agreement to send state police forces to assist with law enforcement staffing issues in the city.
The “joint powers agreements” will allow state forces to “provide high visibility patrol in agreed-upon areas and during agreed-upon times to help deter crime”
The new agreement comes amid an extended crime spike that has plagued the Twin Cities for the past two years.
“Now is the time, before summer is underway, to bolster public safety resources in our city,” said Mayor Jacob Frey. “Our collective work aligning MPD, State Patrol, and BCA personnel will help improve safety outcomes rightfully expected by residents and visitors in Minneapolis. I’m grateful to Governor Walz for his support in coordinating a joint powers agreement to keep people in our city safe.”
Notably, Minneapolis was largely at the center of the “defund the police” movement, as leaders cut the law enforcement budget. However, as time passed, the city reversed the decision and increased the funding.
However, despite the reversal of funds, many police officers felt a lack of support and opted to leave their positions.
“We know that the courage, selfless service, and compassion that our Minneapolis police officers show every day in their work helps to make a positive difference in people’s lives,” said Interim Chief Amelia Huffman. “We are deeply grateful to work with our partners from the State Patrol and the Bureau of Criminal Apprehension. We share one mission: to reduce violence and increase safety, and we can achieve better results working together. These collaborative efforts will be key in addressing violence, holding accountable those who choose to harm others, and increasing peace in our city.”
Additionally, the Department of Justice announced a new initiative to target and punish criminals who commit violent crime.
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Cooper Moran is a reporter for The Minnesota Sun and The Star News Network. Email tips to [email protected].
Photo “Minneapolis Police” by Tony Webster. CC BY 2.0.
