st. paul

The following e-mail was sent on the night of May 20 by Capt. Chris Omodt, commander of the Metro Gang Strike Force (MGSF), to members of the advisory board that oversees the Force. The e-mail was obtained by the Star Tribune through a request under the Minnesota Data Practices Act.

From: Christopher D Omodt

Sent: 05/20/2009 11:51 PM CDT

Subject: MGSF Status

MGSF Advisory Board Members:

I am sorry for the late hour of this email but I felt it necessary to get this information out to you tonight.

This morning the legislative auditor released their findings and recommendations regarding the MGSF operations. The legislative audit commission asked some tough questions regarding the legislative auditors findings.

This afternoon, I was informed that a couple of MGSF members came to the office and removed what were described as files, work product, and were essentially packing up their desks. Then there was a comment made by one member that he would not be back or words to that effect. Chair Shaver responded to the offices and while there, he advised that several more MGSF members came in after hours and started to remove property and belongings. Chair Shaver advises he asked them not to pending the meeting that we called for tomorrow. I then came into the MGSF office and learned that MGSF members had begun shredding files. I found the dumpster behind the building contained many shredded documents, there was residue from shedding in the office and garage areas and there were two additional garbage cans full of shredded documents. I also found two of the three shred bins nearly full of documents intended for shredding. Lastly, I went to the computer that tracks card access to the building and found that it was powered off. My prior understanding is that this computer is not intended to be powered off.

The MGSF Advisory Board invested the authority in me as the appointed commander to run the day to day operations and oversee the auditors recommendations. Based on the auditors findings and some of the events from tonight I am unable to oversee both operations and the recommendations. In light of the board meeting scheduled for next week to discuss an action plan, I made the decision to suspend day to day operations pending the board meeting. I have discussed this with Chair Shaver and he concurs. In the meantime, myself and others will continue to focus and work on the auditors recommendations.

The MGSF is an essential investigative entity that has proven time and time again it's effectiveness in fighting gangs. It is imperative that the MGSF continue to fight the gangs that continue to proliferate across the metro area. But as the MGSF commander, I feel this action is necessary in the short term and appreciate the Advisory Boards confidence in me.

Chris