Extra holiday patrols in force in Mpls.

by Jessica Mador, Minnesota Public Radio

MINNEAPOLIS — The Minneapolis Police Department is planning extra patrols and enforcement in downtown Minneapolis for the long Memorial Day holiday weekend. More visitors than normal are expected downtown.

Sgt. Stephen McCarty says they will have extra officers on bicycle and horseback on the streets.

"We have a contingent of undercover officers that will be monitoring certain areas," McCarty says. "We have a partnership with security guards and security officers downtown. They have access to our radio transmissions, so if a suspect description is given our security guards and security officers in the area offer us an extra set of eyes."

Police are urging people to practice basic safety precautions this weekend: Remain aware of your surroundings, travel with a friend if possible and don't openly carry money or electronics.