4 Things To Know from WCCO

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July 2 — The city of Minneapolis is announcing a coordinated effort to increase enforcement on what they're calling "open-air drug markets." Officials and other local leaders say they will come together to crack down on drug dealers and those targeting vulnerable communities.
Plus, we'll tell you about controversy over a decision to pardon a Minnesota man. The Department of Homeland Security says Tou Lue Vang is undocumented and had been convicted in 2006 of first degree criminal sexual conduct of a child. Vang's victim wanted to a pardon, however.
Did you know fireworks can cause anxiety to many people? The sights, sounds and smells remind some them of gunfire or explosions that trigger PTSD. Fireworks can also be stressful for shooting victims.
And high heat and rounds of rain are fueling dangerous beach bacteria ahead of the holiday weekend. Bde Maka Ska's beaches are open, but Lake Hiawatha's are closed. The exact reason may surprise you.
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Wednesday, July 1 — Prosecutors say a Minnesota teen should be tried as an adult for allegedly killing her mother with a hammer. The court needs to certify the girl as an adult before the case could be moved out of juvenile court.

New laws go into effect in Minnesota today, impacting schools, social media, and state projects. School districts now have to adopt an anonymous tip system on potentially harmful activity at school, or involving students and staff.

4th of July safety is a big topic today. It's been a hectic scene in the Twin Cities over recent years. Leaders addressed concerns with a safety plan.

A Minnesota family has a warning after a burger sent their son to emergency surgery. Hear their unique story, and what you can do to prevent it.

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Tuesday, June 30 — The United States Attorney for Minnesota announced the charges against 25 members from two drug trafficking gangs. The charges come after a long-term federal investigation.

Three major rulings came down from the Supreme Court on its final day of the term. One of the rulings involves transgender athletes in youth sports. We hear reaction from Gov. Tim Walz and House Speaker Lisa Demuth.

The search is on for a U.S. Marine from Minnesota. The military says he was lost at sea off the coast of California.

And ahead of the 4th of July celebrations, first responders are sending a clear message: drunk boating is drunk driving.

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Monday, June 29 — High temperatures and storm chances are all over Minnesota today. We also share some tips for keeping your kids safe outside.

Greater Minnesota is being impacted by a draught, and this heat isn't helping. We hear from some local farmers.

Two former Timberwolves players, Malik Beasley and Ed Davis, were indicted by the U.S. DOJ today for an alleged NBA betting scheme. We have more on the lawsuit.

Plus, the race for an open U.S. Senate seat is heating up between Lt. Gov. Peggy Flanagan and Rep. Angie Craig.

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Friday, June 26 — A Minnesota Police Officer shot in the line of duty was released from the hospital today. The BCA says a 21-year-old man fired a shotgun down a hallway during a standoff, hitting Austin Buss in the arm.

A local state representative charged with driving drunk was in court today. We have an update on Elliott Engen's case.

Today, the Inver Grove Heights City Council voted to approve a year long moratorium on data centers. Residents are requesting an environmental study.

And early voting is now open for Minnesota's state primary. We have an update on the races.

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Thursday, June 25 — Minnesota Timberwolves fan favorite Naz Reid is now gone. We get reaction from fans outside Target Center.

Legalized Bathhouses and sex venues will return to Minneapolis. The City Council reversed a 38-year ban, so now consenting adults may engage in sexual activity.

The interim commissioner of Minnesota's Department of Human Services was on Capitol Hill today testifying in front of a House Oversight Committee looking at fraud.

A major golf tournament started this morning in Minnesota. We're at Hazeltine in Chaska to check out what's in store for the Women's PGA Championship.

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June 24 — Metro Transit says trips on the Blue Line may take longer.
Buses will replace the train between Target Field and the Mall of America. What's the deal?

A Minneapolis child care center says growing drug activity and encampments are creating safety concerns. What the city is trying to do about it.

The 4th Minneapolis Police reform progress report is out. It pinpoints progress and challenges facing the department; we'll share the results.

And Amazon Prime Day is met with protests in the Twin Cities. What workers are hoping to see changed.

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Tuesday, June 23 — After nearly five years of review, Ramsey County prosecutors say they found no reason to overturn six murder convictions tied to testimony from former Medical Examiner Dr. Michael McGee.

A St. Paul Woman charged with assaulting police officers and punching an FBI Agent was in court today for a plea hearing.

Some parents in the state's largest school district say they want to foot the bill for added funding. But as they push for a referendum, the district weighs its options.

Dakota County is celebrating a new court, with a specific focus on the Native community. Minnesota is among the states with a history of forcibly removing Indigenous children from their families and subjecting them to years in boarding schools.

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June 22 — The DOJ was looking into Minnesota officials over an alleged conspiracy to impede immigration agents during Operation Metro Surge. We'll tell you why the subpoenas were quashed.

Plus, charges are being dropped for close to half of the more than 30 people accused of assaulting federal agents during the immigration operation.

There's a planned worker strike at tonight's Twins game against the Dodgers. The workers say they make minimum wage and do not get health insurance.

And a long vacant Minneapolis landmark is getting new life. It could bring new housing, healthcare services, retail and jobs to the East Phillips neighborhood.

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Friday, June 19 — St. Peter Police told residents to shelter in place last night after they say an officer was shot. The Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension is handling the investigation.
A Minneapolis man is facing charges in connection to a string of business burglaries that targeted restaurants and coffee shops across the city last month.
The first debate between U-S Senate candidates Representative Angie Craig and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan will be tonight.
Celebrations are happening across the Twin Cities in honor of Juneteenth.
Join Maria Lisignoli and Johnny Kahner for this episode of 4 Things to Know.

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