Have You Seen More State Patrol Vehicles In Minneapolis? There’s A Reason.

Minnesota freeways, especially in the Minneapolis area, have been more crowded this week, and they will be until Wednesday, February 23rd. 

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Starting on Valentine's Day, motorists may have detected a significantly increased State Patrol presence on freeways, such as I-94 between downtown Minneapolis and I-694. 

Why is that, you ask?

Well, it's a part of the 10-day Highway Enforcement for Aggressive Traffic (HEAT) effort that runs from 7 pm to 1 am each night. 

During this time, troopers are specifically focusing on excessive speed enforcement and criminal activity, according to a news release from the Department of Public Safety. 

In addition, the State Patrol is increasing its aviation support to ensure any drivers attempting to flee a traffic stop are located and held accountable. 

Col. Matt Langer, chief of the Minnesota State Patrol, explains:

“Some drivers are speeding for no reason, while others are fleeing police after committing a crime. These HEAT patrols will increase our presence on the freeways so we can stop speeders and catch criminals who attempt to escape. If you don’t pull over, we’re going to find you with our aviation assets.”

The news release notes that the implementation of the HEAT patrols followed a meeting with the Minnesota Police Chiefs and Sheriffs associations last week that discussed ways "the State Patrol could expand its efforts to support local law enforcement agencies as they address crime in their communities."

My only question is, what is to come after these ten days are done? Fellow Facebook users stressed the same concerns.