Minneapolis audit flags fraud risks in violence prevention programs

A recent audit of Minneapolis’s Neighborhood Safety Department has revealed significant oversight gaps in the city’s violence prevention programs. The report indicates that the department has not effectively managed more than $36 million spent since 2023 on five major programs, creating a heightened risk of “fraud, waste, and abuse.” Auditors noted that contractors frequently submitted invoices with limited documentation and that the city sometimes issued payments despite missing records or unresolved concerns.

In response to these findings, Mayor Jacob Frey has proposed cutting nearly $2.7 million from violence interrupter funding, citing a lack of clear results for taxpayers. While some City Council members argue that these cuts could lead to increased crime, city officials stated they are taking steps to improve processes, including retraining staff and refining invoice review practices.

Separately, Minneapolis police leaders are requesting a $20 million budget increase, primarily to cover $13 million in overtime costs. Interim Chief Bill Peterson and other officials acknowledged past mismanagement of overtime and stated that new administrative controls and digital tracking tools have been implemented to ensure future spending remains within budget.