As we welcome warmer weather and longer days, I wanted to share some exciting and tangible progress in North Minneapolis. Over the past year, we’ve seen a significant decrease in violent crime, particularly gun-related incidents, thanks to the hard work and collaboration of community partners and law enforcement. This reduction is not just a number; it represents real change and improvement in the safety of our neighborhoods.
When I first saw the challenges facing North Minneapolis, I knew that reducing crime would require a collaborative approach, bringing together key partners who could make a difference. That’s why I brought together coalitions, including the Hennepin County Sheriff’s Office, Metro Transit Police, Minneapolis Police, Minneapolis Fire, Public Works, Regulatory Services, and community trauma response and violence interruption groups. Together, we’ve worked to build a united front against crime, and the results speak for themselves.
One key initiative I advocated for was more focused attention on problem properties. I made it clear to the Fourth Precinct leadership that this was a priority, and as a result, we are now the only precinct in the city with dedicated problem property officers. This is just one example of how our proactive efforts are making a real impact on public safety.
The numbers back up our progress: Gunshot wound victims decreased nearly 20% from 2023 and are now back to pre-pandemic levels. Gunshot incidents decreased 25% compared to the previous year. ShotSpotter activations fell by 16%, with nearly 500 fewer activations in 2024. The number of rounds detected by ShotSpotter dropped 13%, with nearly 1,500 fewer rounds fired. Automatic gunfire dropped by 28%. The overall “Gun Crime Index,” which tracks gun-related calls, dropped by 14%.
The drop in crime is even more significant when compared to previous years: ShotSpotter activations are down 60% from 2021. Rounds detected are down 59% from 2021. The Gun Crime Index has decreased 54%.
Even though crime typically drops in the winter months, these positive trends are continuing into 2025, with reductions in assaults, homicides and burglaries. These are encouraging signs, and I’m optimistic about what the future holds for our community.
This success is the result of the collective efforts of law enforcement, community organizations, businesses and residents all working together. We’ve built trust, increased awareness, and worked side by side to address our public safety challenges. As someone who lives and serves in North Minneapolis, I am proud of what we’ve accomplished these last few years.
I also want to extend my deepest gratitude to our Fourth Precinct Inspector Charlie Adams for his outstanding leadership. This progress is a direct reflection of his commitment to our community. It’s clear that when we collaborate, we see results.
But our work is far from over. Every resident deserves to feel safe and secure in their neighborhood, and we will continue to push forward to make even more progress in the coming warmer months. I remain committed to supporting our law enforcement and community leaders, so that North Minneapolis continues to thrive as a vibrant and thriving place to live.
As always, do not hesitate to reach out to my office at ward4@minneapolismn.gov or 612-673-2204. Serving you every day is an honor and a privilege.
LaTrisha Vetaw,
City Council Member, Ward 4