Crime Continues in Minneapolis Despite Summer Visitors

In recent weeks, Minneapolis has been a focal point for various events drawing tens of thousands of people to its downtown area. From Pride festivities to the U.S. Olympic Gymnastics Trials and Taste of Minnesota, the city has showcased vitality and energy. Yet, crime remains a persistent concern. 

The triple shooting that occurred on Monday, July 8th, in the Warehouse District has once again highlighted the issue of public safety in downtown Minneapolis. Occurring around closing (2 a.m.), this incident underscores ongoing challenges despite efforts to stop violence in the city. Minneapolis Police Department (MPD) Chief Brian O'Hara attributes such incidents to individuals under the influence engaging in reckless behavior involving firearms. He describes the city as a complex area for crime, making it difficult to address all issues. 

Democrats continue to sit on the sidelines and let Minneapolis fall to crime. They have continued to fail in ensuring that there are plans in place to protect the city. As the number of police officers has fallen, the issues have become almost impossible to resolve. It is of utmost importance that lawmakers make decisions that are for the betterment of the city and the people in it. 

Minneapolis is Minnesota’s biggest city. It is the beating heart of the economy of the state. If it suffers, so does the rest of the state. We can no longer afford to have our city be plagued by crime while elected officials simply sit by and watch it all unfold. Minnesotans deserve better, law enforcement deserves better, and residents of the city deserve so much better. We must double down on holding lawmakers accountable for their actions, or, lack thereof. There is great promise filling the city of Minneapolis; however, when it comes to citizens’ safety there is only so thin law enforcement can be spread. It is pertinent to demand action and ensure the city can turn around.