Minneapolis, MN — Minneapolis Police Chief Brian O’Hara recently discussed a variety of issues impacting the city during an interview on FOX 9’s All Day Live. These topics included notable declines in violent crime, the dismissal of a high-profile defamation lawsuit, and upcoming changes in law enforcement leadership.
Recent data released by the Minneapolis Police Department has shown a promising decrease in shootings and homicides in the first quarter of 2025. Chief O’Hara, along with Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey, highlighted the city’s longest stretch without any homicides since the last was reported on February 15, 2025. The positive trend is believed to be due to enhanced community policing strategies and a prioritization of violent crime by local prosecutors.
In judicial news, a defamation lawsuit filed by MPD Assistant Chief Katie Blackwell against Alpha News was dismissed by a Hennepin County judge. The lawsuit stemmed from claims made by reporter Liz Collin regarding Blackwell’s testimony during the 2021 trial of Derek Chauvin. Chief O’Hara expressed support for his officers and agreed with the judge’s view that the claims in question were ambiguously articulated and protected under free speech.
Moreover, the Minneapolis Police Department responded to allegations from the group “Minneapolis for the Many,” which cited lack of communication between city officials following a neighborhood shooting. Chief O’Hara dismissed these allegations as baseless and politically motivated, emphasizing the ongoing commitment to transparency and accountability within the department. He assured the public that an independent review of the incident would be welcome.
On another front, the city will soon witness transitions in key law enforcement roles. University of Minnesota Police Chief Matt Clark is set to retire after almost a decade in his role, during which time significant reductions in campus crime were recorded. Clark’s initiatives, such as the expansion of the university police’s jurisdiction and a late-night safety plan, are expected to leave a lasting impact.
Additionally, the upcoming resignation of U.S. Attorney Andrew Luger, who was notable for his prosecution of significant cases including gang violence and local fraud, marks another significant change. The appointment of his successor by the current administration is anticipated to continue this focus on tackling street crime.
These shifts in Minneapolis’s public safety landscape come at a critical time when community relations and crime prevention are at the forefront of municipal concerns. The developments suggest a proactive approach in adapting to challenges and planning for a secure future.
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