Sheriff's Somali Gang Claims Spark Debate | Duluth News

Ramsey County Sheriff Bob Fletcher’s recent video warning of a surge in Somali gang violence has ignited fierce debate, sparking backlash from community leaders and lawmakers who argue his rhetoric unfairly targets an entire ethnic group. While Fletcher cites 12 identified Somali gangs linked to over 100 crimes since 2023, Minneapolis Councilmember Jamal Osman and CAIR-Minnesota warn such language fuels division, scapegoats youth, and ignores root causes like poverty and opportunity. Fletcher defends his stance, citing outreach efforts and personal ties to the community, insisting the goal is to steer young people away from violence — but critics insist the language risks deepening mistrust and endangering vulnerable members of the Somali population. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/fbc4748dee9a21a0