Minneapolis, MN (Minnesota Now) — Minneapolis police say they are still keeping their focus on fighting violent crime, even as federal immigration enforcement tied to Operation Metro Surge has added extra strain on local officers.
In a press release on January 22, Minneapolis Police Chief Brian O’Hara said the department has made “significant progress” in reducing violent crime and getting illegal guns off the streets during the past seven weeks of Operation Metro Surge.
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According to MPD, officers cleared five of the city’s seven reported homicides during that time by filing criminal complaints. Investigators also made nine arrests connected to six separate shooting cases.
The department reported 20 gunshot victims citywide, which MPD says is a major drop compared to recent years. According to the release:
- 35% lower than last year
- 62% lower than two years ago
- 60% lower than three years ago
- 67% lower than four years ago
- 59% lower than five years ago
Chief O’Hara said the reductions are the result of targeted enforcement and data-driven policing focused on repeat and violent offenders.
Dozens of Illegal Guns Recovered
MPD says officers recovered 74 illegal firearms during the operation and made 26 gun-related arrests. Police also carried out 241 high-visibility patrols in areas known for gun violence…