In the same state where George Floyd’s death in 2020 sparked anti-police riots and efforts to “defund” local law enforcement agencies, one city has just become the latest to eradicate its local police department.
36. That’s how many police departments have disbanded in MN since 2016. Moose Lake is just the latest one due to budget constraints.
We’ll break down what happens next on @NorthernNewsNow Today☀️ pic.twitter.com/cyktfImwBm
— Mitchell Zimmermann (@mitch_zimm) February 15, 2024
Moose Lake city council members cited budget constraints and problems staffing the agency as the primary reasons for the decision.
The city, which contained a prison and a program for sex offenders, will now rely on the county sheriff’s department to provide law enforcement services. Not everyone on the council was on board with the drastic decision.
According to the Washington Examiner:
Mayor Ted Shaw was one of two dissenting votes, saying afterward he would work to make a smooth transition but “I’m disappointed.” He said he was struck by the number of departments that have closed in small cities across Minnesota.
“That tells you there is a real problem with inflation and budget and state supports,” he said. “Something isn’t right.”
The story attracted some attention on social media, particularly from those who believe the council’s decision will ultimately make Moose Lake less safe.
Thank goodness Walz and the Democrats are disarming Moose Lake's citizens. No police, no home protection, a major prison nearby, and unvetted illegal military aged invaders make for a safe community. A Democrat paradise. https://t.co/eq6oPGZ5I2
— Duke Neovocis🦅 (@neovocis) February 14, 2024
NEW: the Moose Lake City Council could vote to disband its police department.
The interim chief is the only cop left after several resigned.
He just pleaded to council to keep his job and bring back the department.
“I’m your guy and I’ll make it happen.”@kare11 pic.twitter.com/ATfxd9EACV
— Jennifer Hoff (@JennHoffReports) February 14, 2024
Moose Lake Minnesota is in for a world of problems No police I think best to move your family to a place that cares for its citizens more than illegal criminals
— Tony Browning (@TonyBro87363286) February 15, 2024
The leftist backlash against police in recent years has sparked a widespread recruiting problem as many officers are simply quitting their jobs and few new applicants want to enter the law enforcement field.
As ABC News reported last year:
A survey released on April 1 from the Police Executive Research Forum of 182 law enforcement agencies indicated that while police departments are recruiting more officers compared to a 2020 decrease, departments have seen 47% more resignations and 19% more retirements in 2022 compared to 2019.
“There’s a vicious cycle of it getting worse,” John Jay professor and former police officer Peter Moskos said.
Here’s some more coverage of the ongoing problem:
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