Crime Prevention and Safety Committee - Minutes

Crime Prevention and Safety Committee - Minutes

Tuesday, February 18, 2014

MLK Park

Attendance: Almost 30 neighbors attended, including CPaS Committee members Michael Vanderford, Anne Birch, and Nancy Galas. Members of the Minneapolis Police Department included Inspector Loining and Ms. Jennifer Waisanen. City Council Member Elizabeth Glidden was also in attendance.

Also present: Cheryl DeGroff, KFNA

MPD Presentation: Newly promoted Insp. Loining thanked everyone for attending. He spoke about the resources that are provided via the 5th Precinct to address crime that occurs in the Kingfield neighborhood. New Crime Prevention Specialist Jennifer Waisanen was introduced.

In addition, the following crime updates were provided:

• The second Kingfield homicide within 3 months was discussed. As with the homicide in November, the victim knew the suspect as a result of their criminal activities. This second homicide, at the end of January, occurred when the victim and suspect came off of the highway and drove into our neighborhood. Although the incident was very alarming, Insp. Loining reassured the neighbors that this crime was not directed toward our neighborhood, it is just unfortunate (for us and the victim) that our area was chosen in which to commit the crime. However, it is still very alarming for the residents in the immediate areas where these two homicides occurred. Several neighbors were very vocal and emotional about their fear for their families.
• A review of Kingfield crimes from January-February was provided – there was one homicide, 6 burglaries, and 7 larcenies. A handout was distributed that shows locations, dates, and times that these crimes were committed. The actual document is attached to this report.
• Most importantly, it was stressed that we not feel bad about calling 911 – when in doubt about a car or a person in our neighborhood, especially our alleys, please call 911. Several in attendance felt they would like to receive more training about how to use the 911 system.
• A handout was provided that gives tips on things that can be done to prevent many burglaries titled, “What to Do Before the Burglar Arrives.” The handout can be found on our Crime Prevention and Safety page of under the link to City of Minneapolis Crime Prevention Resources. Another handout, “Securing Your Home and Property,” was distributed with suggestions for locks and other mechanics to help secure your structures.
• Jennifer spoke about the importance of a strong, organized block and an active block leader, including distributing information to the block e-mail list.
• Information about RAIDSonline.com, along with sample screen shots, was distributed. The website provides timely information about reported crime. The Minneapolis Police Department is now utilizing this website for residents to obtain current and historical information about a variety of crimes within boundaries that subscribers can set.
• Residents also asked if they could be provided follow-up information regarding an armed robbery that occurred last November, to an employee leaving the nursery on Nicollet. Jennifer said she would research the incident and see if there is any additional information available.

Items of concern to the neighborhood:

• Gas station at 46th and Nicollet appears to be enticing for persons to loiter and commit crimes on near-by streets, including drug dealing and defecating in people’s yards. Jennifer will work with the owners to ensure they are complying with appropriate ordinances, including being held accountable for 911 calls and illegal activity. It was stressed that everyone call 911 when they see these activities occurring so that the city can have current documentation.
• Neighbors on First Ave along the 4500 and 4600 blocks are very concerned about the traffic, including people speeding through the neighborhood, poorly visible intersections, and easy access for illicit activities. It was determined that a core group of neighbors, along with KFNA staff, would meet with Ms. Glidden to determine if the city (Public Works) would make the street one way. In addition, Jennifer will contact appropriate resources to study the traffic pattern and speeding.
• It was requested that KFNA research obtaining “We Watch We Call” signs, especially temporary ones that could be placed in people’s yards along both sides of a block to show a united force.
• Neighbors requested that additional efforts be made to communicate with residents, including flyering various blocks that would be interested in future meetings and events. It was mentioned that many people do not have e-mail or use Facebook and may be missing out on important information.
• Attendees felt that the Kingfield website should include all of the various ways neighbors can connect, especially Nextdoor Kingfield. Each attendee that provided an e-mail address was sent an invitation to join.
• It would be very helpful if the 5th Precinct released positive information about suspects arrested for crimes that occurred in the neighborhood. The good work of the officers makes a good balance for only receiving information about the increasing crime. Jennifer said she would work on providing updates to the neighborhood as the information is provided to her.

Ideas for future Crime Prevention events and meetings were reviewed.

Minutes provided by Cheryl, KFNA Project Organizer, 02/19/2014