City Of Minnetonka: An Update On 2021 Crime Statistics

Press release from the City of Minnetonka:

11/09/2021 1:51 p.m.

Each week more than 2200 subscribers receive an email listing all of the Minnetonka Police Department’s calls for service. That same information, along with a form to subscribe to updates, is posted on our website. While the report offers a detailed look at the location and types of calls our officers’ receive, it’s also helpful to step back and take a broader view of what is and is not taking place in our community.

We have all read and viewed news reports about increased crime across the metro area. With that in mind, I want to share data specific to Minnetonka to offer more context.

• Serious crime, or person crime, has not increased in Minnetonka in a review of the past three years. These incidents involve violence, including aggravated assaults, domestic disturbances, robberies and homicides. You can review crime data, including historical trends, in our annual report.
• Property crime has increased over the same period. These incidents include auto theft and burglaries.

Minnetonka has been fortunate that we have not seen higher levels of serious crime experienced by neighboring communities. But property crime is noteworthy not only because it has increased, but because it can lead to more serious crimes in other communities. Investigative data shared recently with police agencies shows some vehicles stolen from one community can later become a suspect vehicle in a more serious crime committed elsewhere.  Additional information suggests this type of activity is organized and comes in waves.

Minnetonka Police have made a number of arrests in local cases. In a few instances, our officers have safely ended vehicle pursuits that began in other cities. Most departments, including ours, restrict officers from engaging in vehicle pursuits for less serious crimes, such as thefts.

Our investigators are working across the community and with partner agencies to employ a number of strategies to combat this crime. In addition to that, our crime analyst is continually reviewing trends locally and across the region to help us deploy the appropriate resources.  

The vast majority of property crimes can be prevented. While it may seem all too simple, locking your home and vehicle remains a highly effective deterrent. Garage door openers should not be visible, or they should be removed if possible, when you park outside. Please call 911 if you see suspicious activity and report it.

Finally, we are always interested in recruiting new officers to our department. On Wednesday, we will hold an open house at the police department for those interested in learning more. I am grateful to some community members who will also be on hand to greet recruits and help answer any questions they have about Minnetonka and our department. If you know someone who would be interested, please invite them to connect with us.

Sincerely,

Scott Boerboom
Chief of Police
City of Minnetonka

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