National Guard readying to help with safety in Twin Cities

(KSTP) – The Minnesota National Guard will begin preparing to provide safety help in Minneapolis and St. Paul after receiving authorization from Gov. Tim Walz on Friday.

Walz’s executive order comes amid the federal trial of three former Minneapolis police officers charged in George Floyd’s death. However, the governor says the Guard will also be ready to help in Minneapolis, if needed, following Amir Locke’s fatal shooting by Minneapolis police.

At this time, the National Guard isn’t being directed to assume posts throughout the Twin Cities but will prepare to help local law enforcement.

“Out of an abundance of caution for the safety of Minnesotans, and at the request of the City of Saint Paul, I have authorized the Minnesota National Guard to make preparations to assist local law enforcement agencies as needed,” Walz said in a statement. “The National Guard will be available to help keep the peace, ensure public safety, and allow for peaceful demonstrations.”