The twin cities have been trending in the right direction regarding violent crime year over year. So far in 2023 there have been 33% fewer homicides, and 37% fewer gun shot victims, and a reduction in carjackings by 45% compared to 2022. Law enforcement agencies in the Twin Cities hope to continue that trend as Operation Safe Summer 2 kicks off.
Operation Safe Summer is a data-driven approach to reducing violent crime. At specific dates and times law enforcement agencies will be increasing their presence, both uniformed and undercover in targeted crime hot spots throughout the metro area. Specifically highlighted will be areas in North Minneapolis, downtown, and around East Lake Street.
The ultimate goal ofthe initiative is to address staffing shortages in law enforcement agencies, and to reduce violent crime across the board, with a particular focus on gun violence, and juvenile crimes. Last year the Minneapolis Police Department set a record for gun confiscations with 1,101 recovered firearms and so far it appears that the initiative will continue its previous successes with an 18% increase in gun recoveries in 2023.
“The biggest issue right now is juvenile crimes. We have juveniles doing adult crimes, and it’s happening so often,” said Hennepin County Sheriff Dawanna Witt. “I believe in prevention, intervention — but we also have to acknowledge once that threshold is crossed there needs to be accountability,” she said. The focus on juvenile crime has also borne fruit. On the first day of this summer’s initiative a 12-year-old and five older teenage passengers were arrested for driving a stolen Kia, that was believed to have been involved in multiple armed robberies that day.
“We are focusing on the worst of the worst out there who are wreaking harm or causing havoc in the community,” Minneapolis Police Chief Brian O’Hara said of the joint-agency initiative. “You are out there this week and every day and taking these people off the street.”
If you find yourself or someone you know facing criminal charges this summer, give us a call and we can help – (763) 421-6366.