SAINT PAUL, Minn. — St. Paul officials are asking for the public’s help after a recent surge in violent crime.
In the last two months there have been nine homicides in the city and three shootings involving St. Paul police officers.
A group of police, city, and church leaders leaders, as well as community advocates gathered in front of media Thursday at SPPD headquarters. The main message from police, the mayor, and community advocates was a plea from residents to speak up and help them tackle gun violence. And that in order to tackle gun violence residents need to speak up.
Chief Axel Henry was among them and didn’t take questions about those specific instances because the BCA is investigating. Axel did say those three cases involved homicide suspects with firearms.
“We don't want people being shot in our city,” said Henry. “Most of our weapons offenders, some of someone in their lives knew they had access to a gun or had a gun.”
“There are so many people that are on your side, young people,” said Senior Pastor Melvin Miller of Progressive Baptist Church. “If you find a young person that is stressed and is challenged and is about to make a bad choice, please reach out.”
Advocates are also calling for more resources for youth.
Despite this uptick in crime in St. Paul, the city is on track to see fewer killings than 2023. Police also pointed to the recovery of more than 550 guns this year.