Maple Grove PD

Contact information: Maple Grove Police Department Commander Jonathan Wetternach 763-494-6199 [email protected] Release date: October 22, 2026 Adult charged with forgery after attempting to enroll in high school On October 22, 2026, a 29‑year‑old male, Makayla Craig, who is homeless, was formally charged in Hennepin County District Court with felony aggravated forgery for allegedly attempting to enroll in Maple Grove Senior High as a student using false records. Craig is currently being held at the Hennepin County Jail on $50,000 bail. On October 19, 2026, a school district employee became suspicious of a student enrollment application. The employee notified a Maple Grove school resource officer, who initiated an investigation. On October 20, 2026, Maple Grove officers located Craig in a public parking ramp. He was arrested on probable cause charges, booked at the Maple Grove Police Department, and later taken to the Hennepin County Jail. Officers also learned that Craig is a registered sex offender in Oregon. Craig never completed enrollment with Maple Grove Senior High School, and he was never present on campus as a student or in any online classes. The Maple Grove Police Department credits the school district staff for their alertness with the incident, quick action to notify a school resource officer, and collaboration in the investigation. The case remains an active and ongoing investigation. Additional information will be released as appropriate. ##

Help us make a difference this October with our Purple Patch Initiative during Domestic Violence Awareness Month! The Maple Grove Police Department’s End Domestic Violence patches are back — and NEW this year, we’re excited to offer our End Domestic Violence bears! Bears and patches are limited, so don’t wait! Proceeds benefit Maria's Voice and their efforts to prevent domestic and youth relationship violence through education, awareness, and community action. During the month of October - purchase yours at: Maple Grove Police Department — 12800 Arbor Lakes Parkway Daily Dose Café and Espresso — 15517 Grove Cir N Kingdom Coffee — 7899 Main St. $25 Bear | $10 Patch | $30 Bear + Patch Bundle Cash or check (Maple Grove Police Association) only A special thank you to Daily Dose Cafe and Espresso and Kingdom Coffee for their continued partnership and support of this important initiative! We appreciate their commitment to helping us raise awareness and make a difference in our community.

Contact information Maple Grove Police Department Commander Jon Wetternach 763-494-6199 [email protected] Release date September 2, 2026 Elm Creek Park Trail Assault Update – Maple Grove Police request further assistance (Maple Grove, MN) - The Maple Grove Police Department continues to actively investigate the assault that occurred inside Elm Creek Park Reserve. On August 30, 2026, at approximately 8:30 a.m., Maple Grove Police responded to a 911 call from a female victim who stated she was forced to the ground by an unknown male who placed a shirt over her mouth before fleeing on foot. An extensive multi-agency search of the area did not locate the suspect. The suspect is described as a light skinned Hispanic male, early to mid-30s, approximately 5’9”-5’10”, clean shaven, with short curly dark hair, and a stocky build. The suspect was wearing bright blue basketball style shorts with no logo or graphics. He was shirtless but carrying a gray cotton style T-shirt. The assault occurred on a paved trail on the northwest side of Mud Lake in Elm Creek Park Reserve. Police are asking Champlin and Dayton residents and businesses to review doorbell, security, or other surveillance cameras for a possible suspect or suspicious activity. Areas of focus are along Zachary Lane North and Elm Creek Road, as well as neighborhoods along Fernbrook Lane North and Elm Creek Road. Anyone with information is asked to contact Maple Grove Detective Angela Tschida at 763‑494‑6214 or [email protected]. We remain committed to the safety of all residents and park visitors. All park users are asked to stay aware of their surroundings, report suspicious activity immediately to 911, and consider walking or running with a companion when possible. Additional patrols will continue in the area as the investigation continues. Further updates will be provided when possible. ###

Contact information: Maple Grove Police Department Commander Jon Wetternach 763-494-6199 [email protected] Release date: August 30, 2026 Maple Grove Police seek public’s help to identify assault suspect Maple Grove, MN. At approximately 8:30 a.m., Maple Grove Police responded to a 911 call from a female reporting she had been assaulted inside Elm Creek Park Reserve. The victim stated she was forced to the ground by an unknown male who placed a shirt over her mouth before fleeing on foot. The suspect is described as a heavy-set Hispanic male in his 30s, wearing bright blue shorts and no shirt. He may have been carrying a gray shirt at the time of the incident. Responding officers from multiple agencies conducted an extensive search of the area and did not locate suspect. The investigation remains active and the Maple Grove Police Department is requesting the public’s help. Anyone who was in the vicinity at the time of the incident or who may have additional information is asked to contact the Maple Grove Police Department through Hennepin County Dispatch at 911 or the non-Emergency number at 952-258-5321. The Maple Grove Police Department is assisted by the Three Rivers’ Public Safety Department, Hennepin County Sheriff’s Office, Dayton Police Department, Champlin Police Department, and the Hennepin County Crime Lab with the immediate response and the ongoing investigation. We remain committed to the safety of all residents and park visitors. All park users are asked to stay aware of their surroundings, report suspicious activity immediately to 911, and consider walking or running with a companion when possible. Additional patrols are present in the area as the investigation continues. ###

The Maple Grove Police Department is asking for the public’s help in identifying a vehicle involved in a recent theft. Boy Scout Troop 84’s trailer, containing camping gear, was stolen from Maple Grove Lutheran Church sometime late on February 6 into the early morning hours of February 7, 2026. The stolen trailer was later observed traveling westbound on I-94 at approximately 12:40 p.m. on February 7 near Maple Grove Parkway. The vehicle pulling the trailer had a white hood, which investigators are hoping someone may recognize. If you have any information about this vehicle or incident, please contact Detective Jon Bueckers at 763-494-6191 or [email protected] Your assistance is greatly appreciated.

Contact information: Maple Grove Police Department Commander Jon Wetternach 763-494-6199 [email protected] Release date: January 27, 2026 Update on Maple Grove hotel protest (Maple Grove, MN) - On January 26, 2026, the Maple Grove Police Department, with assistance from law enforcement partners, arrested 26 individuals for unlawful assembly and riotous conduct near the SpringHill Suites. The protest was declared an unlawful assembly after property damage and violence occurred, making the activity no longer protected under the First Amendment. Dispersal orders were issued, and individuals were given clear instructions and ample opportunity to leave. The following is a summary of the arrests: •13 individuals arrested for gross misdemeanor riot •13 individuals arrested for misdemeanor unlawful assembly •2 of these individuals face an additional charge of obstructing legal process •One individual remains under investigation for property damage but fled apprehension The Maple Grove Police Department is aware federal agents are staying at hotels across the state and were the subject of this protest. During this incident, our priority was the safety of those in the area, hotel staff, all guests, and property. While we respect First Amendment rights, we will not tolerate property damage or violence in our community. We worked closely with local, county, and state law enforcement agencies to maintain a safe environment for our city. We thank the Minnesota State Patrol, Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, Hennepin County Sheriff’s Office, Hennepin Public Order Group, the Brooklyn Park Police Department, and the City of Maple Grove Public Works and Fire Departments for their assistance. Further updates will be provided as available. ###

PRESS RELEASE Contact information: Maple Grove Police Department Commander Jon Wetternach 763-494-6199 [email protected] Release date: January 26, 2026 Maple Grove Police respond to protest at hotel (Maple Grove, MN) - On January 26, 2026, at approximately 8:00 p.m., the Maple Grove Police Department responded to reports of a protest at the SpringHill Suites by Marriott, located in the 11600 block of Arbor Lakes Parkway in Maple Grove. The Maple Grove Police Department respects and upholds the First Amendment rights of individuals to peacefully assemble and express their views. Our priority remains the safety and security of all residents, visitors, and property within our community. During the event, the situation escalated when individuals in the crowd engaged in unlawful behavior. Property damage occurred, and objects were thrown at officers. At that point, the activity was no longer considered peaceful. Individuals participating in criminal acts are not protected under the First Amendment and were subject to arrest. To prevent further criminal conduct and maintain safety, a dispersal order was issued. Those who failed to comply with lawful orders or committed crimes were arrested. The Maple Grove Police Department will not tolerate illegal conduct. Several individuals were taken into custody. As of approximately 10:00 p.m., the crowd has dispersed, and officers are monitoring activity in the area. The Maple Grove Police Department works in close partnership with local, county, and state law enforcement agencies to maintain a safe environment for everyone. The Maple Grove Police Department would like to thank the Minnesota State Patrol, Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, Hennepin County Sheriff’s Office, and Hennepin Public Order Group for their assistance. Further information will be provided as it becomes available. ###

A message from the City of Maple Grove The City of Maple Grove is aware residents may have questions and concerns about the increased immigration enforcement involving federal officials in our community. We acknowledge the actions of federal agents may be creating fear and anxiety for some members of the public and some businesses within Maple Grove. The city is committed to its primary responsibility of ensuring the safety and security of its residents through trust, relationships, and collaboration with the public. We want to provide clarity about what our residents may be seeing and how our Police Department can be a resource to the community. It’s important to know the city does not enforce immigration laws and is not involved in any federal immigration operations. Under federal law, immigration enforcement is handled exclusively by federal agencies. Maple Grove officers do not ask about immigration status of suspects, victims, or witnesses and are prohibited from sharing information for the purpose of identifying or enforcing immigration violations. Our officers may assist with traffic direction, road safety, crowd control, or calls for service at private property, but we do not participate in federal enforcement actions. ICE is a separate federal agency, and no one, including local police, may interfere with their operations. The city respects the right for the public to demonstrate or protest. Officers may respond to those events to assess whether the activity is lawful, ensure public safety, and protect the right for citizens to exercise their constitutional rights in a lawful manner on public property. It is unlawful to obstruct the actions or activities of ICE or any law enforcement agency. We ask that you remain calm, stay safe, and avoid interfering with any ICE enforcement activity you observe. Attempting to impede federal agents can create safety risks for everyone involved. When a resident is concerned about the activity of ICE agents within the city, they are asked to call the Maple Grove Police Department at 763-494-6100. You will be directed to the appropriate staff immediately. If you believe a DHS employee has acted improperly, complaints can be submitted directly to the DHS Office of Inspector General (OIG). You may file a report online through the DHS OIG hotline complaint form at hotline.oig.dhs.gov/#step-1. The City of Maple Grove is aware that some local businesses have been impacted by ICE activity in the community, resulting in closures or reduced hours of operation. We are also aware that private fundraising efforts have been established to benefit businesses that have been impacted. Residents who wish to support those efforts can do so by seeking online fundraising sites. Additionally, local organizations, such as CROSS Services (crossservices.org), are good resources to support the community.

Maple Grove Police Department is aware that federal government agents have recently conducted activity in our community. We want our residents to know that the Maple Grove Police Department enforces only state and local laws — not federal immigration law for that is the federal government's responsibility. When federal immigration enforcement activity occurs in Maple Grove, our Police Department will not take an active part of those operations with federal agents. Our jurisdiction has not been notified in advance of current federal operations. Maple Grove Police Department is legally required to ensure safety for all. That may involve assisting with crowd control as part of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) operations. Our officers will work to de-escalate situations but will not participate in enforcing immigration law. If protests or gatherings occur, our officers may respond to assess whether the activity is lawful, ensure public safety, protect everyone present, and maintain the peace for those exercising their First Amendment rights. ICE is an independent federal law enforcement agency that is a part of the Department of Homeland Security. Maple Grove officers do not have authority over any federal agency and cannot intervene with any of their operations. For Maple Grove Police Department and the public, it is unlawful to obstruct ICE actions or activities. When witnessing immigration enforcement, it is important for bystanders to stay safe and remain peaceful. Public access to streets and sidewalks must be maintained, and residents should follow the instructions of Maple Grove officers (if present) as they seek to keep everyone safe.

Thank you for all the first responders who worked during the holiday week to keep our community safe for our residents to enjoy time with family and loved ones! @maplegrovemngov

PRESS RELEASE Contact information: Maple Grove Police Department Commander Jon Wetternach 763-494-6199 [email protected] Release date: December 23, 2025 Suspect charged in November Maple Grove restaurant shooting (Maple Grove, MN) – On November 14, 2025, Maple Grove Police responded to a report of a shooting at Benihana, located in the 11800 block of Fountains Drive. The suspect fled the scene. The victim sustained a non-life-threatening gunshot wound, was treated at a hospital, and later released. Investigators determined this was not a random incident. Following an extensive investigation, 31-year-old Deontae Coney of Brooklyn Park was formally charged by warrant in Hennepin County District Court with second-degree assault in connection with the November 14 shooting. He was taken into custody without incident on December 23, 2025, in Inver Grove Heights with assistance from the South Metro SWAT Team and the Inver Grove Heights Police Department. Deontae Coney is currently being held at the Hennepin County Jail on $250,000 bail. The Maple Grove Police Department would like to thank the Anoka-Hennepin Narcotic and Violent Crimes Task Force, Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension, Brooklyn Park Police Department, Hennepin County Sheriff’s Office Crime Scene Investigators, South Metro SWAT Team, and Inver Grove Heights Police Department for their assistance in this case. ###

Excellent work by our officers engaging with the community at the second annual Maple Grove Turkey Trot!

Sergeant Matt Brost graduates from School of Police Staff and Command! Today, Sergeant Matt Brost graduated from Northwestern University’s prestigious School of Police Staff and Command. During the past three months, he attended class full-time in St. Paul. Sergeant Brost gained valuable knowledge and skills along with developing a strong network of police leaders from across Minnesota. SPSC “is an intensive leadership and management education program that helps prepare experienced law enforcement professionals for success in senior command positions. Since its inception in 1983, law enforcement agencies throughout the U.S. and around the globe have recognized the important impact a SPSC education makes on their leadership and management teams. Through an innovative combination of academic principles with practical applications, the SPSC curriculum zeroes in on such critical command-level content as planning and policies, media relations, organizational behavior, budgeting and resource allocation, human resources, contemporary policing, and more.” Congratulations to Sergeant Matt Brost on his exceptional accomplishment!

Last week, 25 officers from across the country graduated from a D.A.R.E. instructor course hosted by Minnesota D. A. R. E. Maple Grove Police Department is grateful for the ongoing partnership with MN D.A.R.E. to train the next generation of instructors. ccxmedia.org/news/next-gener…

Yesterday, the @NewHopeMN Police Department held its annual Faith & Blue Event. Another great opportunity to build understanding, relationships, and transparency between the police and community. It was a privilege to be a member of the discussion panel comprised of police executives, city administration, and faith leadership. Panel members were New Hope Chief Tim Hoyt and City Manager Reese Bertholf, @PlymouthMNPD Public Safety Director Erik Fadden, @MapleGrovePD1 Chief Eric Werner, @RobbinGov Chief Pat Foley, @CrystalMNPolice Chief Brian Hubbard, @Hennepin @HennepinSheriff Dawanna Witt, and New Hope Church Pastor Matthew St. John.

Maple Grove officers will continue making traffic stops to enforce all Minnesota traffic laws. Any felony crimes discovered during any traffic stop will be referred to the Hennepin County Attorneys Office for charging.