|
Legislative Update
Dear Neighbors,
I am updating you today to highlight the recent spat of violence and persecution of our state’s law enforcement officers. Earlier this month, the case against Trooper Ryan Londregan was dismissed. Hennepin County Attorney Mary Moriarty's attempt to indict Trooper Londregan for the shooting death of Ricky Cobb II was a clear overreach, driven by political agendas rather than factual evidence. In fact, the story became statewide news when new information came out showing that Moriarty cherry-picked evidence, leaving out crucial expert testimony about the use of force. Despite Moriarty's initial aggressive stance, the evidence that emerged showed that Londregan acted within the bounds of his duty, making it impossible for the state to prove that his use of deadly force was unjustified.
This case highlighted a significant misuse of prosecutorial power by Moriarty, who faced substantial criticism from the public, the legislature, and even the governor for her handling of the situation. Her actions were seen as divisive and an attack on law enforcement, with accusations of ethical misconduct and political manipulation being levied against her by various law enforcement groups and legal experts. This outcome not only vindicates Trooper Londregan but also serves as a strong rebuke to those who seek to undermine law enforcement through politically charged prosecutions.
While this is wonderful news to the law enforcement community and Londregan and his family, this case represents a broader trend in our state and our country. Support for law enforcement is dwindling and it is causing major issues for our police who are struggling with the recruitment and retention of good officers. These anti-police sentiments, which have been at the center of politics and media over the past few years, have also put our officers in more danger than ever before. This year alone, three officers and one firefighter paramedic have been killed in the line of duty. The most recent of which was Officer Jamal Mitchell, who heroically answered the call to stop a gunman shooting people in Minneapolis last month. When he arrived, he stopped to provide aid to a man he thought was a victim. Instead, the man ambushed him, shooting and killing him and injuring several other officers.
|
|
|
During this tumultuous time for our law enforcement officers, it’s more important than ever that our communities support our police. Moreover, we as legislators must do everything we can to support the recruitment of high-class officers and retain those we already have. A recent survey by the Minnesota Police and Peace Officers Association (MPPOA) underscored these challenges, with 80% of respondents expressing reluctance to recommend the profession to a family member and 98% voicing concerns about the risk of prosecution for on-duty officers.
To bolster support for law enforcement’s crucial work, the Suburban Solutions Caucus developed the "365 Initiative." This plan, spearheaded by Rep. Jeff Witte (R-Lakeville), emphasizes continuous support for officers throughout the year. Key components include:
-
House File 4837: Permits flexible use of public safety aid by local agencies.
-
House File 4222: Expands the use of tracking devices for fleeing vehicles.
-
House File 1079: Criminalizes fleeing in a vehicle and failing to obey traffic laws.
-
House File 4452: Requires indictments for life imprisonment offenses and officer-involved deaths.
-
House File 4866: Mandates disclosure of expert witness information to peace officers.
These measures aim to provide the necessary tools and support to maintain community safety year-round. We are also working on legislation to address the retention and recruitment of public safety officers. These measures also help address many of the issues police are facing that keep them from doing their jobs effectively and safely.
I am committed to collaborating with law enforcement, local leaders, and community members to keep our communities safe. The recent School Resource Officers (SROs) issue demonstrated the importance of cooperation in addressing public safety and reinstating SROs in schools to protect educators, staff, and students.
I recently attended both the funerals for Officer Jamal Mitchell and the three Burnsville public safety officers and was touched by the huge outpouring from the community. I believe we are turning the corner on respect for those that protect and serve. Below are my observations of these Heroes.
The memorial service for the Burnsville Policemen and Firefighter-EMT was touching as was their sacrifice to save children from victimization and rescue each other. As we contemplate the state of our communities in Minnesota let us thank those who put their lives on the line to preserve the peace and save lives. May their sacrifice not be forgotten.
Exceptional, selfless, community-minded and family-focused were just a few of the many attributes shared last week at MPD Officer Jamal Mitchell's funeral. I was honored to pay my respects, along with many of my colleagues, to this hero in blue who exemplified all that is good and righteous in our society. He lived up to his commitment to protect and serve up to his last moments.
|
|
|
We have a great public safety team in Washington County. Both our Attorney and Sheriff are committed to keeping our community safe. A heartfelt thank you to all law enforcement officers and staff at the Washington County Sheriff's Office – which covers much of our district – the Cottage Grove Police Department, neighboring Stillwater and Woodbury police, plus all departments statewide for your dedication and service. |
|
Please Contact Me
Please continue to reach out if I can be of any assistance to you. You can reach me by phone at 651-296-4244 or by email at rep.mark.wiens@house.mn.gov.
Have a great weekend!
Mark
|
|
353 State Office Building
100 Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.
Saint Paul, MN 55155
ph: 651.296.4244 |
|
|
|
