Minneapolis Police Report Drop in Shootings, Dozens of Illegal Guns Seized Despite Extra Strain on Officers
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.
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.
“These reductions reflect focused enforcement, improved investigative coordination, and proactive deployment strategies,” MPD said in the release.
Nearly 850 Arrests Made
Over the past seven weeks, MPD reports making 849 total arrests, including:
- 214 domestic-related arrests, including 34 aggravated domestic assaults
- 24 aggravated assault arrests not tied to domestic cases
- 17 robbery arrests, including five carjackings and 10 aggravated robberies
- 128 warrant arrests
- 82 drug-related arrests
- 27 DWI arrests
- 9 criminal sexual conduct arrests
Fentanyl and Firearms Seized in Search Warrants
On January 21, police executed multiple search warrants tied to an ongoing narcotics investigation. MPD says officers recovered three firearms and about 130 grams of fentanyl. One man was arrested in connection to that case.
Police called the seizure an example of the daily work being done to improve public safety.
Policing With Fewer Officers
MPD also acknowledged the strain on its workforce. The department says it is currently about 300 officers below its peak staffing level of roughly 900 officers. At the same time, officers have faced longer shifts, canceled days off, and emergency recalls due to increased citywide demands and protest-related deployments.
Despite those challenges, MPD says officers have remained focused on crime reduction and community safety.
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Gallery Credit: Rick Acker
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