Law enforcement and city leaders are praising the turnaround of a dangerous intersection in North Minneapolis.
Several months ago, Attorney General Keith Ellison opened an investigation into two businesses, Merwin Liquors and Winner Gas Station, after continued violence and drug selling and use.
Now they say reports of criminal incidents are down dramatically. Ellison told WCCO's Henry Lake Thursday night why the state decided to get involved in what would normally be a local issue.
"There were neighborhood residents who said this problem's been going on for 10 years, 20 years ago," says Ellison. "I remember the 90s when they would call us Murderapolis. How come this is the first time the state's really gotten involved? And, you know, the truth is it's outside of the traditional role of the Attorney General quite honestly. But when the problem started spiking, everyone had to put on their thinking caps about how they could help."
Ellison credits both businesses for changing management and enlisting the help of the nonprofit "We Push For Peace." He also says they'll continue to work with the city to keep an eye on it and perhaps use the model to crack down on other problem areas.
The area of Broadway and Lyndale, the home to Merwin Liquors and the Winner Gas Station, has been problem free for months after Attorney General Keith Ellison's opened an investigation into whether the two businesses were liable for the crime.
"I'm not here to applaud anyone, or asking anyone to take a bow," Ellison said. "Just as much as we have reduced through joint efforts in the intersection, if we let our foot off the gas it can pop back up again. And we're not going to let that happen."
Last fall, Ellison’s office sent both businesses notice of the investigation. The letters requested each business to provide the state with any complaints and regulatory or legal action taken on their business since Jan. 1, 2021. Ellison also requested internal communications about staff safety, security measures and any actions taken to stop criminal activity on the property.