Stay Curious. Stay Connected.
MailNewsletters♡Donate Now
Sign up
*Password must be at least 8 characters and contain one uppercase letter, one lowercase letter, one number and one symbol.
Already have an account?
By submitting, you consent that you are at least 18 years of age and to receive information about MPR's or APMG entities' programs and offerings. The personally identifying information you provide will not be sold, shared, or used for purposes other than to communicate with you about MPR, APMG entities, and its sponsors. You may opt-out at any time clicking the unsubscribe link at the bottom of any email communication. View our Privacy Policy.
Sign in to your profile
Forgot Password?
New to MPR News?
Welcome back
to news
for you
Reset Password

Enter the username on file and we'll send you a code to reset your password.

Still require assistance or not sure what your User Name is?
Welcome back
to news
for you
Email Verification

A verification code has been emailed to

Still awaiting the code?
Jon Collins

MPD chief installs new leadership at 4th Precinct

Go Deeper.

Create an account or log in to save stories.

Log inCreate a free Account

Like this?

Thanks for liking this story! We have added it to a list of your favorite stories.

Show me!

Just days after controversy erupted over a racist Christmas tree on display at the Minneapolis Police Department's 4th Precinct, Chief Medaria Arradondo has assigned a new inspector to lead the north Minneapolis precinct.

Images of a Christmas tree decorated with beer cans, cigarettes and police tape spread quickly on social media Friday. It was condemned by members of the public, activists and Minneapolis City Council members, including Council Member Jeremiah Ellison, who represents the area. Ellison said it's "the type of thing that always instills fear in the community."

Inspector Aaron Biard, who has led the precinct since 2017, is being replaced by Assistant Chief Mike Kjos. Kjos previously led the precinct starting in 2012 and again in 2016. In a statement, Arradondo said Kjos will lead the precinct "until a decision is made on the next inspector."

Mayor Jacob Frey said in a statement that he supports the chief's decision, and that "it reflects his resolve to make meaningful change."

Frey has vowed to take action against the officers involved in decorating the tree. The police department confirms that two officers are on paid leave, and that the incident is being investigated. The department hasn't released the officers' names.