They can run but they can’t hide from CriMNet!

Back in 2000, the Target Corporation committed $260,000 to help purchase four pieces of forensic equipment for the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension’s (BCA) crime lab in Bemidji.

CriMNet is a state-level program that now works with Minnesota State and local agencies to provide accurate and comprehensive criminal justice information. This information is available to criminal justice professionals in law enforcement, the courts and corrections. It also works with agencies on the federal level to track information sharing activities in other states.

CriMNet is not a single database or technology solution. It coordinates information sharing from a statewide and potentially nationwide viewpoint so that systems can work together. The more agencies that work together and in a similar manner, the easier it is to share criminal justice information.

For example in the small town of Chaska located west of Minneapolis-Saint Paul, CriMNet found and arrested a career criminal who burglarized local businesses and surrounding communities. The suspect initially eluded capture but police used CriMNet to identify and contact his probation officer. While the suspect was in custody for the Chaska crimes, police officers found evidence in his home to connect him to about 50 other burglaries. He had a criminal history record of burglary convictions dating back to 1982. As a result, the suspect has been charged with the crimes in district court.