Minneapolis City Council security costs are debated and scrutinized

A Minneapolis City Council member defended the decision of three colleagues to use private security agencies to protect them, saying the service was recommended by the city's security experts following threats.

"Anybody that's making a threat over a policy action or statement or decision is engaging in a form of terrorism meant to suppress the democratic system through a form of intimidation or violence," said Council Member Andrew Johnson, who said he has also received a threat but hasn't asked for private security.

The revelation that the city has spent at least $63,000 in recent weeks on private security for council members at a time when they are discussing ending the Minneapolis Police Department (MPD) has drawn criticism and accusations of hypocrisy from some city residents.

https://www.startribune.com/minneapolis-city-council-security-costs-are-debated-and-scrutinized/571609212/