May 27, 2026
For Immediate Release
CONTACT: Ian D. Bethel 612 801 0034
UCMT’s MOU with MPD calls for continuity of the PCRC Process
UCMT Commits to Working with Interim Chief Blackwell and the Search for a New MPD Chief
“Unity Community Mediation Team (UCMT) will follow our MOU with the City of Minneapolis and will welcome the new Chief of Police to the Police Community Relations Council (PCRC) to continue the progress that has been made on transforming the MPD into the police department we need and want,” declared Ian D. Bethel, Chair of the UCMT and Co-Chair of the PCRC following an emergency UCMT Board meeting today, called to discuss the way forward following the resignation of Chief O’Hara.
The UCMT board thanks Chief O’Hara for the progress made on implementing the MOU during his tenure. It cites the creation of the Neighbors Helping Neighbors community mediation program that diverts 911 callers in long term disputes with neighbors that do not rise to the level of criminal activity that require a police response. Also noted is the Community Mentor program that matches all new MPD officers with a community leader who is trained in mentorship of police officers, to help ensure that officers get off to a good start of a successful career at MPD. In addition, UCMT has been active in reaching out to community members and encouraging them to apply to become police officers in Minneapolis. UCMT is pleased to see the size of recruit classes growing significantly.
UCMT continues to insist on transformation, accountability and consequences in public safety and the community. We regret that some decisions the Chief has made led to his resignation. As we have with many transitions of Chiefs since our founding in 2003, we will welcome all new leadership. We look forward to continuing to strengthen relationships between all levels of MPD and our diverse communities in Minneapolis.
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UCMT-Unity Community Mediation Team, 4301 First Avenue South, Minneapolis, MN 55409
Ian D. Bethel, Chair
ucmt2003@gmail.com unitycommunitymediatonteam.com
REFORM, TRANSFORMATION, TRANSPARENCY, ACCOUNTABILITY, AND CONSEQUENCES
IN PUBLIC SAFETY AND THE COMMUNITY
