Latest News in Minneapolis, MN

Federal grand jury indicts violence prevention workers on Minneapolis felony gun charges

Two men, Kashmir Khaliffa McReynolds and Alvin Anthony Watkins Jr., face federal felony gun charges after firing approximately 43 rounds in a Minneapolis neighborhood following an earlier gunfire incident. The pair, who were working for the nonprofit 21 Days of Peace, were reportedly attacked first and sought cover before returning fire. Their actions have raised questions about law enforcement's response to the initial gunfire.

Federal operation at Lake Street restaurant that drew protests was one of 8 across Twin Cities

Federal agents conducted a search at a Lake Street Mexican restaurant, leading to a confrontation with protesters. This operation was part of eight raids across the Twin Cities. Witnesses reported alarm at the sudden show of force from authorities.

In surprise testimony, brother says Derrick Thompson was driving in crash that killed 5 Somali women

Derrick John Thompson's murder trial faced a setback when his brother, Damarco Thompson, testified that Derrick was driving the vehicle involved in a crash that killed five Somali women. Damarco's testimony was compelled by a court order after he initially planned to invoke his Fifth Amendment rights. Closing arguments are scheduled for Thursday.

How a hockey rink became a go-to site for local high school graduation ceremonies

Minneapolis' Mariucci Arena hosts 23 high school graduation ceremonies this year, accommodating about 6,000 attendees each. The venue offers a weather-independent option for suburban schools, alleviating pressures on administrators while still requiring significant coordination.

Their faces covered during Minneapolis raid, federal agents raise privacy worries

Federal agents concealed their identities during a Minneapolis restaurant raid, sparking political controversy. Law enforcement agencies defend the practice, citing safety and operational reasons. The issue raises concerns about transparency and accountability in federal operations.

MPCA intends to yank permit for St. Paul foundry accused of polluting the neighborhood

Minnesota regulators initiated the process to revoke a critical air permit for the Northern Iron foundry in St. Paul, citing the company's failure to provide essential environmental data. The foundry plans to contest the state's decision and can continue operations for 30 days while seeking an administrative hearing.

City auditor says Minneapolis has insufficient private contract oversight

Minneapolis City Auditor Robert Timmerman reported widespread issues in the city's oversight of private contracts, including a concerning no-bid contract with Helix for clearing a homeless encampment. He emphasized the need for better training and site visits to ensure contractors fulfill their obligations, citing risks similar to past state fraud cases.

Read ICEs full statement on federal law enforcement operation in Minneapolis

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) conducted a federal law enforcement operation at a Mexican restaurant in south Minneapolis, labeling the action as "groundbreaking." The operation resulted in clashes between federal officers and protesters outside the establishment.

In federal Lake Street operation, ICE agents Norse patch sparks questions over ideology

An ICE agent's Viking skull patch during a federal operation in St. Paul has sparked concerns over potential extremist affiliations. Observers have linked similar symbols, like the Vegvisir, to white supremacist groups, although experts caution that such imagery can also represent heritage. ICE has not commented on the agent's intentions regarding the patch.

Agencies again team up in Minneapolis to saturate crime hot spots for Operation Safe Summer

Minneapolis law enforcement launched "Operation Safe Summer" this week to combat crime in identified hotspots. The initiative, now in its fourth year, involves collaboration among local, state, and federal agencies to remove guns and illegal drugs from the streets. Chief Brian O’Hara emphasized the operation's importance in addressing crime trends and focusing on key offenders.