Richfield, MN

April 12, 2021

Richfield residents,

We were deeply saddened to learn of the tragic shooting of Daunte Wright and the unacceptable conduct of the officer involved in his death. Actions such as this erodes the trust Richfield’s officers have sought to build with residents. Our thoughts are with Mr. Wright’s family, friends and a grieving region.

The death of Mr. Wright sparked outrage and demonstrations in the north metro last night. We support, respect and understand residents wanting to peacefully protest, but some of the demonstrations have resulted in acts of vandalism, arson, looting, and other crimes of violence. Several individuals committed crimes of opportunity throughout the region, including burglaries of retail businesses, as law enforcement resources were dedicated to other areas of concern.

The Richfield Police Department (RPD) is continually monitoring the evolving situation and has taken proactive measures to reduce and/or prevent these criminal activities from impacting our community. Tonight and into the foreseeable future, the department will increase its patrol presence overnight.

Governor Walz has issued a metro-wide curfew that covers Hennepin, Ramsey and Anoka Counties starting at 7 p.m. and lasting until 6 a.m. tomorrow. Residents must remain at home during that time period. Exemptions to the curfew apply to members of the press, law enforcement, emergency responders, those traveling to and from work, and for attending religious services. 

This is an extremely challenging time for all of us. Through it all, our officers and firefighters are strongly committed to providing the highest quality public safety services to residents. The city’s first responders are also asking for your help. Residents should keep their porch lights on to deter any illegal activities and if you believe you are witnessing any form of illegal activity, please call 911, immediately.   

Sincerely,


Maria Regan Gonzalez 
Mayor 


Katie Rodriguez 
City Manager 

Jay Henthorne 
Police Chief 


Mike Dobesh 
Fire Chief