Minneapolis police have outlined a plan to cut down on gun violence this summer on the city’s north side.
The decision to amp up patrols along the city’s north side was made after crime data revealed a surge in gun related incidents. There were 1,442 gun incidents in Minneapolis in 2013, up eight percent from 2012 and the highest figure since 2008.
Minneapolis Police Chief Janee Harteau said the goal is to strengthen the relationship between police officers and community members in the city’s north side.
“It’s about commitment and synergy; this is just the beginning,” Harteau said.
Patrol, Patrol, Patrol
In hopes of cutting down on gun crime, law enforcement officials have created a three-pronged patrol approach. It involves:
- Joint Enforcement Team patrols with other law enforcement agencies
- Increased foot and bike patrols
- Civilian Patrols
The JET patrols are designed to help more officers get acquainted with the neighborhood, while officials hope the civilian patrols foster the idea that everyone in the community is responsible for eliminating gun violence.
V.J. Smith, president of MAD DADS, said the first civilian patrol was a success.
“We took a group of young men out with us that were formerly in gangs,” Smith said. “What we want to do is not to only patrol but to show them what it’s like to give back.”
Authorities also noted that they plan to aggressively prosecute gun crimes in federal court, meaning it’s even more important for individuals to retain counsel in the event they are charged with a crime.
Gun Crime Penalties in Minneapolis
Gun crime penalties in Minnesota carry stiff penalties, and a person can face a mandatory minimum sentence if they commit a crime while in possession of a gun. Even possessing a gun is illegal if the carrier doesn’t have a permit for the weapon.
A person may apply for a permit to carry a weapon unless:
- They have a prior conviction that makes gun possession illegal.
- They have a juvenile delinquency adjudication for violation of a criminal statute.
- They have a history of mental illness or chemical dependency.
A person who is found guilty of possessing a gun without a permit in Minnesota has committed a gross misdemeanor and can be sentenced to up to a year in jail and/or a fine up to $3,000. Any additional crimes committed while in possession of the gun can aggravate the charge, meaning you could spend years in prison for your actions.
Related source: Albert Lea Tribune
