>>Minnesota immigrant pardoned after sexually abusing child is deported
(Undated) – Secretary of State Marco Rubio says a Minnesota immigrant who received a state pardon after a child sex-abuse conviction has been deported. Tou Lue Vang, a Laotian national, pleaded guilty in 2005 and was pardoned last month by Minnesota’s Board of Pardons after expressing remorse and receiving support letters from family members and the victim. Rubio says federal officials revoked Vang’s legal status and removed him from the country. The pardon sparked criticism from the Department of Homeland Security and several Republican lawmakers.
>> Two Minnesota childcare operators plead guilty in separate fraud cases.
(Minneapolis) – Two Minnesota women have pleaded guilty in separate government fraud cases tied to childcare programs. Federal prosecutors say Fahima Egeh Mahamud admitted stealing more than five million dollars through fraudulent childcare and nutrition program claims, including funds connected to the Feeding Our Future scheme. Meanwhile, Jillaine Mertens pleaded guilty to obtaining more than 425-thousand dollars by submitting false information to a state childcare compensation program. Both women are awaiting sentencing.
>>Ramsey County Sheriff Criticized Over Comments on Somali Gang Violence
(St. Paul, MN) — Ramsey County Sheriff Bob Fletcher is facing criticism from several Somali community leaders over comments about gang violence. In a social media video this week, Fletcher warned of an increase in violence involving Somali gangs, while emphasizing that only a small number of Somali youths are involved. Community organizations, including the Minnesota chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations, agree violence is a concern but say Fletcher’s remarks unfairly stigmatize Somali youth and distract from efforts to address the problem.
>>Pilot Recovering After Emergency Landing in Winona County
(Winona, MN) — Federal investigators are looking into a small plane crash in Winona County. Authorities say a 62-year-old pilot experienced engine trouble Thursday night and was forced to make an emergency landing near County Roads 33 and 6. The pilot escaped the aircraft and was taken to a local hospital with injuries that are not believed to be life-threatening. The FAA and National Transportation Safety Board are investigating what caused the engine failure.
>>Becker County Seeks State Disaster Aid After Tornado
(Detroit Lakes, MN) — Becker County is seeking state disaster assistance after a tornado damaged more than 100 homes near Detroit Lakes. The twister, with winds estimated at up to 115 miles an hour, caused its heaviest damage around Big Floyd Lake. Several people suffered minor injuries, but there were no fatalities. Cleanup is moving forward, although officials say repairs to homes and shorelines could take months. The county has declared a local state of emergency.
>>Crews battling multiple wildfires in Superior National Forest
(Superior National Forest, MN) – Firefighters are working to contain 16 active wildfires in Minnesota’s Superior National Forest, including four inside the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. Most of the fires remain small, with the largest reported at just over two acres. Officials say lightning sparked at least some of the blazes. Additional firefighting resources have been requested, but availability is limited because of wildfire activity across the country. The public is being urged to avoid affected areas and keep drones away from firefighting operations.
>>Minneapolis Mayor Announces Plan to Address Open-Air Drug Markets
(Minneapolis) – Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey has announced a new plan to keep the city safe from drug dealers and find help for those facing addiction. Frey says the city has launched a coordinated effort with Minneapolis Park Police, Metro Transit Police, the Hennepin County Sheriff’s Office and Native community partners to increase enforcement around open-air drug markets. The plan includes installing cameras, increasing police presence and stepping up violations against drug dealers. Frey says the city’s Homeless Response Team will continue to connect drug users to shelters, treatment and other services so they can get help.
>>New program offers benefits to support early childhood educators
(Undated) – Minnesota is rolling out a new program to help early childhood educators access benefits many don’t receive through their jobs. The Department of Children, Youth, and Families will provide eligible workers up to 55 dollars a month for benefits including dental and vision coverage, telehealth, teletherapy, and life insurance. Commissioner Tikki Brown says supporting educators helps children and families thrive. Applications are open now through September eleventh, with limited space available in the pilot program.
>>Chisholm, Hibbing Schools Consider Expanding Partnership
(Chisholm, MN) — Chisholm and Hibbing schools are looking at ways to expand their partnership. The districts already share hockey, soccer, and Alpine skiing programs, but school leaders are now discussing possible collaborations in academics, staffing and administration. Both districts are facing enrollment declines, budget challenges, and teacher shortages. Officials stress the conversations are about sharing resources—not consolidating the two school districts. School boards are expected to continue discussions next month.
