4 Things To Know from WCCO

Thursday, April 9 — A bipartisan push to ban prediction markets is gaining traction at the Minnesota Capitol, but some lawmakers say those same markets could open the door to legalized sports betting. As the debate unfolds, questions remain about regulation, legality, and what it could mean for the future of gambling in the state.

Meanwhile, new felony charges are filed against a man accused of posing as a high school student in White Bear Lake. Investigators say forged documents helped him enroll, as more details emerge in a case that’s been developing for months.

Plus, why a Minneapolis City Attorney reappointment vote is sparking division.

And in our 4th Thing to Know: A federal guilty verdict in an ice cream shop firebombing. You might remember it happened at Fletcher's.

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Wednesday, April 8 — Two Minnesota school districts are taking their fight to federal court, suing former DHS Secretary Kristi Noem in an effort to keep immigration enforcement away from schools. A judge heard arguments today but stopped short of issuing an immediate ruling, leaving districts and families waiting for what comes next.

Meanwhile, Minnesota’s hospitality industry is warning it’s at a breaking point. Restaurant owners and industry leaders say rising costs, regulations, and shifting consumer habits are putting intense pressure on businesses across the state. This all comes while a new Michelin Guide announcement offers a potential boost for Minneapolis.

Plus, we break down a legal battle over conversion therapy laws, and how lawmakers are adjusting in Minnesota.

Plus, a property rights dispute involving a private helicopter... landing on his East Gull Lake Property?

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Tuesday, April 7 — Minneapolis city leaders are considering a controversial proposal to legalize adult sex venues and bathhouses, potentially reversing a decades-old ban rooted in the AIDS crisis. Supporters say regulation could improve safety, while critics raise concerns about public health and community impact.

In a major reversal, a man wrongfully convicted of murder is set to walk free after nearly 18 years in prison. A judge vacated the conviction after new evidence and updated forensic analysis pointed to his innocence, raising questions about the original case and use of informants.

Plus, doctors warn of a sharp rise in serious e-bike and scooter injuries. We hear from an emotional mother sharing her family's tragic story.

And later, ethics complaints emerge against lawmakers on both sides of the aisle at the state capitol. We'll tell you what all the hoopla is about.

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Monday, April 6 — A Minnesota family is speaking out after their 5-year-old son, Liam Ramos, was detained by ICE, sparking national outrage. In an exclusive interview, his parents describe the emotional toll, their ongoing legal fight, and what comes next as the government pushes for deportation.

Minneapolis Police Chief Brian O’Hara is facing a sharp increase in conduct complaints, roughly 15 times more than his predecessor. He believes the spike is tied to backlash over his handling of the recent ICE surge, as questions remain about transparency and accountability.

Plus, President Trump speaks on the war in Iran, including the rescue mission of a U.S. Airmen.

And Senator Amy Klobuchar proposes new legislation as fertilizer prices climb globally, with farmers feeling the impact here at home.
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Friday, April 3 — The Minnesota Twins kick off their home opener at Target Field. New addition Josh Bell looks to bring power to the lineup, and manager Derek Shelton says he can really swing the bat.

Timberwolves legend Kevin Garnett is set to return to Target Center for the first time in years, now serving as a team ambassador and reigniting excitement among fans.

In Plymouth, a daycare worker is charged with child endangerment and obstructing the legal process after police say she was extremely intoxicated while caring for toddlers, with a reported blood alcohol level of .356.

Plus, Minnesota hits a record-high graduation rate, with most student groups seeing improvement statewide. We break down the numbers.

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April 2 — A chaotic night in Minneapolis leaves one man dead and raises new questions after gunfire erupts near a stolen vehicle incident. Police say the two scenes do not appear connected; investigators work to piece together what happened.
Faith leaders are now being allowed inside a federal holding site at Fort Snelling after a judge’s ruling, marking a significant moment in an ongoing dispute with federal officials over access to detainees.
Meanwhile, the assistant U.S. attorney whose “this job sucks” comments went viral is speaking out. We preview an interview she gave WCCO, revealing the overwhelming caseload behind her frustration and what she’s doing next.
And in the suburbs, a park is temporarily shut down after large groups of unsupervised teens sparked fights and chaos, prompting a major police response.
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April 1 — A terrifying situation in Minneapolis ends with relief after a stolen car carrying a 3-month-old baby is recovered and the child is found safe. Police say the incident highlights a growing trend tied to unattended, running vehicles.
Authorities are also cracking down on distracted driving, warning drivers of stricter enforcement and serious consequences as part of a monthlong campaign.
Meanwhile, a new Supreme Court decision is sparking concern among advocates, who say it could weaken protections for LGBTQ children by allowing challenges to bans on conversion therapy.
And yes, winter isn’t done yet. Snow is back in the forecast across Minnesota, with light accumulation expected in the metro and heavier totals to the northwest.

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Tuesday, March 31 — New details are emerging after Minnesota State Representative Elliott Engen was arrested for DWI early Friday morning. Police say Engen initially denied drinking multiple times before later admitting he had consumed alcohol prior to driving. The incident is drawing responses from state leaders, including the House Speaker, as questions about accountability grow.

Construction season is ramping up across Minnesota, with more than 200 road projects planned statewide through the spring, summer, and fall. Officials are urging drivers to slow down and stay alert as crews return to work zones.

In western Wisconsin, a written threat prompted the evacuation of a Hudson church Tuesday morning. Authorities cleared the scene a few hours later, saying there was no ongoing danger, allowing services and activities to resume.

And with the Minnesota Twins home opener just days away, the team is rolling out a fresh lineup of new food and drink options for fans heading to Target Field this season.

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Monday, March 30 — At MSP Airport, TSA workers could finally see paychecks after weeks without pay during the government shutdown, but questions remain about how long relief will last.

A federal lawsuit claims negligence at a state-run mental hospital led to a patient’s death, alleging violent video games triggered a psychotic episode that ended in murder.

The Trump Administration sues the state of Minnesota, alleging the state's policy allowing transgender athletes to compete in girls' sports violates federal law.

Two adults are dead and a teenage girl is fighting for her life after a head-on crash in Park Rapids. Authorities say alcohol may have played a role as the investigation continues.

Plus, activists escalate their fight to shut down a Minneapolis incinerator, now planning a hunger strike to push for a faster closure timeline.

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Friday, March 27 — St. Paul is bracing for massive crowds as more than 100,000 people are expected to attend Saturday’s “No Kings” rally at the State Capitol. Transit systems are ramping up service, and hundreds of officers from multiple agencies are preparing for what could rival, or exceed, the size of a Vikings game-day crowd.
At the White House, Vice President JD Vance convenes the first meeting of a new federal task force aimed at cracking down on fraud, with Minnesota’s recent cases taking center stage. The move comes as the federal government withholds millions in Medicaid funding tied to alleged misuse.
Also, Delta Air Lines is facing growing scrutiny after activists raise concerns about the possible use of commercial flights in immigration enforcement operations. The airline says it does not book travel for the federal government.
Plus, the Gopher Women’s Basketball team heads into a high-stakes Sweet 16 matchup against UCLA, their first appearance at this stage in over two decades.
Join Maria Lisignoli and Johnny Kahner for today’s episode of 4 Things to Know.

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