City Of Minnetonka:

Press release from the City of Minnetonka:

01/21/2022 1:45 p.m.

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Several nights ago, one of our Minnetonka police officers encountered a vehicle driving east along 394 without its headlights on. A quick license plate check revealed the car was stolen, and we attempted to stop it. The vehicle sped off, though our officer did not, and eventually the car spun out of control and crashed in Minneapolis. Law enforcement searched for and located the driver, a man who had 11 outstanding warrants for his arrest.

While each case is unique, the incident follows a pattern I have discussed before. We have seen an increase in property crimes – burglaries, stolen vehicles – and repeat offenders. In some cases, this has led to more serious and violent incidents.

At the end of last year, I met with neighboring police chiefs and mayors to talk about this crime wave. Our partnership quickly led to the arrest of a couple wanted in multiple home burglaries. It also generated a meeting with the county attorneys in both Hennepin and Ramsey counties. As a participant in these meetings, I want to focus some attention on what we are trying to accomplish.

Over the past several years, law enforcement has instituted a number of reforms to better ensure all people are treated equitably and fairly. For Minnetonka Police, this includes new training, updated policies and even greater use of social workers to deescalate a potential crisis. Prosecutors have also increased their use of sign-and-release arrest warrants and generated a list of lower-level crimes for which bail is no longer requested. As a chief of police, I agree jail is not always best answer.

But this effort has also revealed tremendous gaps in our system. In addition to court delays and overcrowded jails, there are also fewer facilities available to help offenders, especially youth in crisis. That is especially problematic because this latest crime wave includes so many juveniles. Without the proper resources available, young offenders are often released before their cases can be heard and law enforcement can deliver the help they need.

We are asking for greater cooperation once cases reach the judicial system. How can police, prosecutors, social workers and others work more closely together to address these gaps? What resources can be made available not only to hold offenders accountable, but also help them move beyond their crimes?

The Minnetonka Police Department is committed to working with prosecutors to revisit those areas in our judicial system where continued improvements can be made. While there is an expectation police will arrest criminals for their behavior, we are not seeking aggressive law enforcement but rather being part of the conversation to ensure the best possible outcome for all, including the victims. 

I will continue to update you as we work in partnership to address these issues.

This press release was produced by the City of Minnetonka. The views expressed here are the author’s own.