Minnesota officials secure injunctions to bar alleged gangs from State Fair

Minnesota state and Ramsey County officials have secured injunctions and agreements to prevent alleged members of two Somali gangs from attending the Minnesota State Fair. The legal actions follow concerns regarding potential violence at the fairgrounds, prompted by social media posts that appeared to foreshadow gang confrontations.

The civil lawsuits were filed against individuals associated with the gangs known as ‘Muddy’ and ‘The Ville,’ alleging that these groups constitute a ‘public nuisance.’ Court documents cited by officials link these gangs to various violent incidents in the Twin Cities, including shootings and brawls at previous fairground events and local graduations.

Attorney General Keith Ellison’s office announced that seven of the ten named individuals have agreed to stay away from the fair or remain outside a ‘designated safety zone’ for the duration of the event. While the agreements have been reached, the individuals involved deny being gang members.