Formation of new Twin Cities Violent Crime Task Force announced

Wednesday, the formation of a new Twin Cities Violent Crime Task Force was announced in response to a spike in violence and crime, particularly those committed with guns, across the metro.

The U.S. Attorney’s Office said the task force will bring together additional federal and state resources to help local law enforcement investigate, arrest and prosecute those responsible for violence with weapons. It will also serve as a coordination hub for law enforcement operations.

“This increase in violence, particularly the shootings, is unacceptable and it must end – that is why I am launching a new Twin Cities Violent Crime Task Force to help turn the tide,” said U.S. Attorney Erica MacDonald. “The goal of this Task Force is not to flood our communities with law enforcement, but rather to leverage law enforcement’s collective resources to allow for focused and effective enforcement actions. Bringing safety and security back to our cities requires collaboration, and we need law enforcement, city leaders and community members all working together toward the common goal of bringing an end to this violence.”

The task force will include federal agents and analysts from the FBI, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), the Secret Service, U.S. Marshals Service, Drug Enforcement Administration, Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension (BCA), Minneapolis and St. Paul police departments, and Hennepin, Ramsey and Dakota County sheriff’s offices, along with federal and state prosecutors.

The public can report tips to the task force by calling 1-800-CALLFBI (1-800-225-5324) or submit pictures or videos online at FBI.gov/violence.