One person each day dies from fentanyl in Hennepin County.
Senator Warren Limmer (R-Maple Grove) recently presented Senate File 2228, a bill that provides a one-time appropriation of $3.5 million to support Minnesota’s Violent Crime Enforcement Teams (VCETs) in their mission to combat violent crime across the state.
VCETs are specialized law enforcement units that focus on disrupting criminal networks, removing illegal firearms from the streets, and addressing gang-related activity. The proposed $3.5 million appropriation will provide additional funding for investigations, equipment, and personnel, strengthening crime-fighting efforts statewide.
“Our communities are experiencing an unacceptable rise in violent crime, and we must ensure law enforcement has every resource necessary to keep Minnesotans safe,” said Sen. Limmer. “Minnesotans are concerned about their safety, and this funding will defer the cost to counties that support the work of VCETs, which play a critical role in targeting dangerous criminals and reducing violent offenses in our communities.”
Hennepin County Sheriff Dawanna Witt testified in support of the funding. “VCET funding is critical to support 21 MN task forces’ ongoing efforts to combat violent crime and address the fentanyl crisis that is devastating our communities,” said Sheriff Witt. She highlighted the crisis in Hennepin County, where one person per day has died of a fentanyl overdose since 2022. She further noted that VCETs across the state have doubled the number of fentanyl pills seized and tripled the amount of fentanyl powder confiscated since 2022
“In terms of the value of seized goods, VCET teams provide an estimated 600% return on investment. Every dollar invested in VCETs takes money away from human trafficking, gun trafficking, and deadly drug smuggling—ultimately saving lives,” Witt shared.
“This is a strategic investment in public safety,” Limmer added. “By strengthening VCETs, we are giving law enforcement the tools they need to address violent crime effectively and protect Minnesotans.”
The bill was laid over for possible inclusion in the Judiciary and Public Safety budget omnibus bill.