Burnsville Police Hold Community Meeting

On Thursday evening, November 14, the Burnsville Police Department held a community meeting at Mary, Mother of the Church to address concerns about crime in the community.  Hundreds of people filled the church that evening.

Burnsville Police Chief, Eric Gieseke, gave the opening remarks.  Then Dakota County Attorney, Jim Backstrom, talked about crime trends in Dakota County.  Drew Evans of the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension followed up with remarks on crime trends statewide. 

There were about a dozen people who came forward with comments or questions from the floor. One gentleman had some statistics on bail procedures and he felt that bail for recidivists needs to be examined. The bail issue was also raised by others. The County Attorney responded that the Minnesota Constitution prohibits the denial of bail. Another resident wanted to have more access to the location of criminals in the community. Substance abuse was another topic that was brought up. 

A young man who lives in the River Hills area read a statement in which he strongly supported the Burnsville Police. He said it was impossible for 75 officers to closely watch 60,000 people and encouraged people in the community to step up when they see something going on. 

Once the meeting was closed, the discussion continued as people talked in small groups for quite some time afterward.

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