Mpls. Police Stepping Up Efforts To Thwart Sex Trafficking
On Wednesday, the Minneapolis City Council got their first report on the latest efforts to stop child sex trafficking in the city.
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On Wednesday, the Minneapolis City Council got their first report on the latest efforts to stop child sex trafficking in the city.
Law enforcement officials are working with Twin Cities hotels to put a stop to child sex trafficking.
A jury has convicted a 26-year-old man for sex trafficking and promotion of prostitution in Chicago and eventually Minneapolis, the Hennepin County Attorney's Office announced Wednesday.
A Minneapolis man is charged with running a juvenile sex trafficking operation out of his home, while an Eagan man is charged with giving the operation business.
The Village Voice is being sold, along with all of its affiliated free arts weeklies, but the deal excludes the online classified site Backpage.com, whose listings have drawn fire for promoting the illegal sex trade.
A national movement is calling for advertisers to boycott City Pages in response to adult classifieds. The controversy is over the website Backpage.com, which, along with City Pages, is owned by Village Voice Media.
A growing number of children in Minnesota are becoming victims of sex traffickers.
The Minneapolis City Council approved a resolution on Friday calling on Village Voice Media to end publication of its online classified section that facilitates the trafficking of minors for sexual exploitation.
Edward Andre Washington was convicted Friday by a Hennepin County jury to two counts of promotion of prostitution/sex trafficking, and one count of kidnapping.
A Somali man who refused to testify against gang members in a sex trafficking trial in Nashville told a judge that he was assaulted and informed that gang members would get him if he snitched.
A Minneapolis woman pleaded guilty to sex trafficking a minor on Friday in federal court, according to the U.S. attorney's office. Kimberly Susan Latham, 33, now faces at least 10 years in prison and could receive life behind bars. Her sentence length will be determined at a future hearing.
A Tennessee jury has convicted three men charged with operating a sexual trafficking ring run mostly by Somali refugee gang members. Another six were acquitted of all charges.
A federal jury will continue deliberations Tuesday in the trial of nine defendants accused in a sexual trafficking ring operated by Somali gang members.
A federal jury will begin deliberating in Nashville on Monday in the trial of nine defendants accused in a child sexual trafficking conspiracy operated by Somali gangs.
A trial has begun in Nashville for nine Somali defendants charged with running a multi-state child sex trafficking ring.
After days of selecting jurors, attorneys are set to give opening arguments on Monday in the trial of more than a dozen people accused in a sex trafficking ring run by Somali gangs that reached from Minnesota to Tennessee.
A 32-year-old Minneapolis woman has been charged with allegedly sex trafficking a minor in November of 2011, according to the United States Attorney's Office.
A 52-year-old Woodbury man has been sentenced to 11 years in prison for bringing a 15-year-old girl across state lines with the intention of having her engage in prostitution.
A new community effort is underway to end sex trafficking along the north shore in Duluth.
Stevon Warren was convicted after a three-day trial on one count of sex trafficking a minor and one count of interstate transportation to engage in prostitution.
When she was 13, Amber Whitefeather met a smooth-talking man on the streets of Minneapolis who seemed to have it all: He wore a silk suit and snakeskin boots, drove a car with Jersey plates and, above all, seemed like he could be the protector she never had.
Men stalking girls at schools and malls only to sell them for sex isn't just happening in other countries. Sex trafficking happens every day in Minnesota.
A Minnesota woman who spent 27 years in the sex industry said police shouldn't punish women who participate in prostitution but focus on the men who pay them.
Minneapolis is on a list of 13 cities with a high concentration of sex trafficking organizations. It's a growing problem, and with children often the victims, several county attorneys are working to change the way Minnesota deals with the young victims.
Prosecutors who want a man accused in a sex trafficking ring run by Somali gangs to stay in jail pending trial claim his brother is not a trustworthy custodian.
David "Diggy" Coit scored 20 of his 28 in the final 13-plus minutes, including the game's final seven points, to help Maryland beat Minnesota 67-62.
In a crowded field, Minnesota House Speaker Lisa Demuth had a very good caucus night; she won the straw poll by about 32%.
Last month, congressional Republicans moved closer to lifting a 20-year ban on mining near Minnesota's Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, pushing a resolution to end the moratorium through the House.
Every parent will tell you, kids see everything, they hear everything and so there's no doubt little eyes and hearts are seeing and feeling the tension, especially of the last few weeks.
Kawhi Leonard had 41 points and eight rebounds and the Los Angeles Clippers beat the slumping Minnesota Timberwolves 115-96 on Sunday.
Every parent will tell you, kids see everything, they hear everything and so there's no doubt little eyes and hearts are seeing and feeling the tension, especially of the last few weeks.
An early morning house fire killed one person and injured another Sunday in St. Louis Park, Minnesota, officials say.
Legal observers and officials say they have received a growing number of reports of federal agents impersonating construction workers, delivery drivers and in some cases anti-ICE activists in Minnesota.
Saturday marks one month since a federal agent shot and killed Renee Good in Minneapolis. Thousands gathered at Powderhorn Park to celebrate her life and honor her legacy.
Becca Good, the partner of Renee Good, released a statement on Friday, thanking the community for their kindness.
Last month, congressional Republicans moved closer to lifting a 20-year ban on mining near Minnesota's Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, pushing a resolution to end the moratorium through the House.
Several sheriff's offices in Minnesota have what's called a 287(g) agreement with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement. Different models allow departments to help enforce ICE operations and to serve warrants on people inside their jails. Crow Wing County has both.
Border czar Tom Homan says in the past month, 158 people have been arrested for impeding or assaulting federal officers, with 85 cases already accepted for prosecution.
U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement operations aren't only happening in the Twin Cities. Federal agents are also working in smaller towns, and in some, seeing similar resistance from the community.
The Crow Wing County Jail started accepting ICE detainees in November 2025. The county sheriff, Eric Klang, says that oftentimes they're brought in a few at a time.
John Lauritsen shares the story behind a massive snow sculpture that's now become a winter destination.
A jury has found a Wisconsin man guilty of forging threats against President Donald Trump in an attempt to get a witness against him deported.
Minnesota and Wisconsin are among the 11 states reporting their first measles cases of 2026.
Hundreds of schools in Minnesota and Wisconsin have closed or shifted to virtual learning on Friday amid dangerous cold.
A Wisconsin man accused of sending the state Supreme Court's chief justice intimidating emails has been sentenced to probation.
U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement operations aren't only happening in the Twin Cities. Federal agents are also working in smaller towns, and in some, seeing similar resistance from the community.
While Operation Metro Surge continues in the Twin Cities, Minnesota's farm country is also feeling the impact. The major concerns for farmers and the trickle-down effect it could have on consumers.
Minnesota's governor spoke out Sunday afternoon following the shooting death of Alex Pretti by federal immigration enforcement agents. "What's the plan, Donald Trump? What is the plan?" Walz said. "Fear, violence and chaos is what you wanted from us, and you clearly underestimated the people of this state and nation."
A marching protest against U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement in Minneapolis Friday afternoon happened as a widespread work stoppage across Minnesota, as organizers called for a day of no work, no school and no shopping.
"When you come to our church, you see Muslims, Christians, Catholics, atheists, LGBT community, everybody with one purpose: helping the neighbor, loving your neighbor as yourself," said Pastor Sergio Amezcua
In a crowded field, Minnesota House Speaker Lisa Demuth had a very good caucus night; she won the straw poll by about 32%.
Last month, congressional Republicans moved closer to lifting a 20-year ban on mining near Minnesota's Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, pushing a resolution to end the moratorium through the House.
Environmentalists are sounding the alarm on the potential harm of a precious metals mine that could be built on the doorstep of the Boundary Waters. Meanwhile, those who support the project say it will bring hundreds of jobs, pump billions of dollars into the regional economy and make the U.S. less dependent on other countries for vital minerals. Our Charlie De Mar spoke to those on both sides of the controversial issue as a potential Senate vote is just days away.
Legal observers and officials say they have received a growing number of reports of federal agents impersonating construction workers, delivery drivers and in some cases anti-ICE activists in Minnesota.
President Trump criticized Team USA freestyle skier Hunter Hess after he and other American athletes at the 2026 Winter Olympics shared their thoughts on U.S. politics.
Amid ongoing immigration operations in Minnesota, a local company is filling a desperate need for on-demand legal help.
Outside the governor's mansion in St. Paul, Minnesota, on Friday, demonstrators, including many students and teachers, pleaded for Gov. Tim Walz to enact an immediate eviction moratorium to help families impacted by the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement surge.
It's part of broader protests calling on the Minneapolis-based retailer to respond more directly to immigration enforcement.
While Operation Metro Surge continues in the Twin Cities, Minnesota's farm country is also feeling the impact. The major concerns for farmers and the trickle-down effect it could have on consumers.
For Minister JaNae Bates Imari, Co-executive director of ISAIAH — a progressive, multi-faith non-profit — it's an idea that was set into motion weeks ago.
Minneapolis Police are investigating a fatal shooting that happened Friday evening. Police say officers responded to a crash near 33rd and Chicago Avenue around 8:25 p.m.
The Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension says it "remains committed" to working with the FBI and the Department of Justice on finding a joint path forward in the investigation into the fatal shooting of Alex Pretti.
Border czar Tom Homan says in the past month, 158 people have been arrested for impeding or assaulting federal officers, with 85 cases already accepted for prosecution.
Lang posted a video to social media of him kicking the newly-installed sculpture that reads "prosecute ICE."
Investigators have no proof that the missing mother of "Today" show host Savannah Guthrie is still alive but are holding out hope she is "still out there," the sheriff said.
Public health officials say a measles crisis has long been brewing in Minnesota.
Patients in Minnesota are canceling appointments and deferring critical health care needs because of fear of immigration enforcement as the federal crackdown continues, doctors say.
Children's Minnesota announced Tuesday it plans to pause some gender-affirming care for children amid "threats" from the federal government.
Nurses in Minneapolis doubted federal immigration officers' claims about a Mexican immigrant's severe injuries.
Minnesota and Wisconsin are among the 11 states reporting their first measles cases of 2026.
Bad Bunny says he wants to bring his culture to his 2026 Super Bowl halftime show Sunday.
Renowned comedian Dave Chappelle is set to return to the Twin Cities later this month to perform and "show a stand with a community at the center of events that should unite all Americans," show organizers said Monday.
Complete closure of the performing arts center in Washington, D.C., will start on July 4, Mr. Trump said. It's not yet clear how extensive the changes to the building might be.
Music's biggest night returned Sunday with the 68th annual Grammy Awards. Here is how to watch and stream and what to know.
In 1971, Demond Wilson appeared on an episode of "All in the Family," a role that led him to land a lead part in "Sanford and Son."
David "Diggy" Coit scored 20 of his 28 in the final 13-plus minutes, including the game's final seven points, to help Maryland beat Minnesota 67-62.
Kawhi Leonard had 41 points and eight rebounds and the Los Angeles Clippers beat the slumping Minnesota Timberwolves 115-96 on Sunday.
Team USA defended its Olympic figure skating team event gold medal on Sunday after Ilia "Quad God" ushered the team to victory at the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics.
President Trump criticized Team USA freestyle skier Hunter Hess after he and other American athletes at the 2026 Winter Olympics shared their thoughts on U.S. politics.
Lindsey Vonn, who came out of retirement to compete in the Milano Cortina Games, is in stable condition after her crash.
In a crowded field, Minnesota House Speaker Lisa Demuth had a very good caucus night; she won the straw poll by about 32%.
The state of Minnesota is vowing to continue the legal battle after it and 12 cities were denied a temporary restraining order that would have shut down Operation Metro Surge.
The state of Minnesota is vowing to continue the legal battle after it and 12 cities, including St Paul and Minneapolis, were denied a temporary restraining order that would have shut down Operation Metro Surge.
While Operation Metro Surge continues in the Twin Cities, Minnesota's farm country is also feeling the impact. The major concerns for farmers and the trickle-down effect it could have on consumers.
While Operation Metro Surge continues in the Twin Cities, Minnesota's farm country is also feeling the impact. The major concerns for farmers and the trickle-down effect it could have on consumers.
John Lauritsen shares the story behind a massive snow sculpture that's now become a winter destination.
Northland Arboretum was built half a century ago on top of what was once a city dump. But over time, nature carved its own path with a little help from a Zamboni.
St. James is a smaller town with a main street and a railroad running though. But inside a local building, the main street and the railroad are even smaller.
On Dec. 9, 1965, "A Charlie Brown Christmas" debuted on CBS, and it became an instant classic. Lee Jenkins' home is proof that the show is still a hit six decades later.
Holiday lights are on full display across the state right now, and just south of the Twin Cities you'll find a Christmas light show that's been around for more than half a century.
According to the Police Executive Research Firm, 82% of police departments in the United States equip officers with body cameras. That number comes from 2023, meaning it could be even higher by now.
With the new $2,600 stipend, DHS said the cost of a single self-deportation is $5,100. That's significantly less than the cost to arrest, detain and deport an undocumented immigrant, which DHS said costs more than $18,000.
It might be hard to believe, but it's gotten warmer outside over the past few days. The temperature is creeping above zero during the day, but the wind chill remains dangerously low. So, how is wind chill calculated?
Minnesota gun rights are in the spotlight after U.S. Border Patrol agents shot and killed a lawful gun carrier over the weekend.
It's a saying Minnesotans and Wisconsinites know well: "There's no such thing as bad weather, just bad clothing." The problem is that even proper clothing might not be enough to withstand the bitter chill headed for the bold north.
Minnesotans got a great view of the northern lights Tuesday night.
A look at the newest addition to the polar bear population at St. Paul, Minnesota's Como Zoo.
From food shelves to school programs, our team is proud to serve where it matters most.
The Minnesota State Fair has unveiled its new food, drinks and vendors for 2025.
A suspect was taken into custody after an attack on Pearl Street Mall in Boulder on June 1 in which there were 15 people and a dog who were victims. The suspect threw Molotov cocktails that burned some of the victims, who were part of a march for Israeli hostages.
WCCO meteorologist Lisa Meadows says tomorrow breaks into the low 40s under cloudy skies.
In Minnesota, weather can be all over the place. Here at WCCO, we want to give you what you need to prepare for what's happening next.
WCCO meteorologist Adam Del Rosso says highs return to the mid 30s this afternoon with the help of a SE wind and a little sunshine to end the day.
Temps stay above average all week, mostly in the 30s for highs and 20s for lows.
WCCO meteorologist Adam Del Rosso says warmth will return to wrap up the weekend.
Lindsey Vonn's long-awaited Olympic comeback hit a heartbreaking halt during the downhill race this morning in Italy. Vonn crashed 13 point 4 seconds into her downhill race this morning in Italy. WCCO's Marielle Mohs went to Buck Hill in Burnsville, Vonn's childhood ski hill, to talk to skiers reacting to the unexpected setback.
Environmentalists are sounding the alarm on the potential harm of a precious metals mine that could be built on the doorstep of the Boundary Waters. Meanwhile, those who support the project say it will bring hundreds of jobs, pump billions of dollars into the regional economy and make the U.S. less dependent on other countries for vital minerals. Our Charlie De Mar spoke to those on both sides of the controversial issue as a potential Senate vote is just days away.
While some Twin Cities families are staying home to avoid ICE agents, some class sizes are shrinking. “If they take me and leave the children,” - that's how one St. Paul woman is framing up her efforts to prepare her children if she is taken by ICE. Laurie Perez shares her story.
WCCO meteorologist Lisa Meadows says tomorrow breaks into the low 40s under cloudy skies.
In an effort to push back on Operation Metro Surge dozens of businesses in the Twin Cities are fundraising. They're using everything from beer, to ice cream, to art. Ashley Grams shows us how the community is coming together.