First Ward Public Safety Reception

Thanks to everyone who attended the First Ward Public Safety Reception at the Firefighters Hall & Museum on November 27. Former Police Chief Tim Dolan came out of retirement for the event to introduce incoming Chief Janeé Harteau and to offer his thoughts on the history of the Second Precinct. Chief Harteau, who joined the Minneapolis police force in 1987, shared her philosophy of policing and the commitment to community engagement she brings to the Minneapolis Police Department. Inspector Schafer gave a report on 2012 crime statistics for the Second Precinct, including the welcome announcement that the Precinct was on track to lead the City in the lowest crime rate this year, as well as highest officer productivity. Some specifics: ·         Part I crime overall down 6% ·         Burglary down 12% ·          Robbery down 22%. He also discussed the crime prevention initiative instituted around Jackson Square Park this past summer and the resultant 80% drop in overall crime in that area. Inspector Schafer introduced Susan Bradshaw, the new Crime Prevention Specialist for the Second Precinct. She joins Nick Juarez as one of two Second Precinct Crime Prevention Specialists, and she will specifically cover the portion of Northeast north of Broadway. Bradshaw talked about her background in the military, serving in both Iraq and Afghanistan as an intelligence analyst, as well as her work for the Downtown Improvement District. She expressed great enthusiasm for becoming a part of the Northeast community and extending the outreach work of the Second Precinct. This well-attended event was the last in a series of 2012 First Ward forums, following previous public discussions on such topics as Minneapolis’ Boards & Commissions, Urban Agriculture, and Arts Education & the Creative Economy. Stay tuned for upcoming First Ward forums in 2013.