Suit alleges MPD repeatedly fails to comply with Minnesota Government Data Practices Act
MINNEAPOLIS — The Minnesota Star Tribune has filed a lawsuit against the City of Minneapolis alleging repeated failures on the part of the Minneapolis Police Department (MPD) to comply with the Minnesota Government Data Practices Act (MGDPA), the state law that governs public access to government records.
The lawsuit, filed in Hennepin County, asserts that MPD has unlawfully delayed, denied, or failed to adequately respond to multiple lawful requests for public data, hindering the Minnesota Star Tribune’s ability to report accurately and fully on matters of public concern. In this particular case, MPD has refused to release information on a murder victim’s identity stemming from a stabbing incident on December 2, 2025 in the Kenwood neighborhood of Minneapolis.
“Minnesotans have a clear legal right to timely access to public records,” said Kathleen Hennessey, editor of the Minnesota Star Tribune. “When a government agency fails to comply with the law, it undermines transparency and accountability. This lawsuit seeks to enforce the public’s right to know.”
The Minnesota Government Data Practices Act requires government entities to respond to data requests in an appropriate and prompt manner. According to the complaint, the Minneapolis Police Department has repeatedly fallen short of these obligations by failing to release the identity of murder victims, even after follow-up requests and attempts to resolve the issues without litigation.
The Minnesota Star Tribune is seeking a court order requiring MPD to release the identity of the deceased victim, adhere to statutory timelines for future requests, and reimburse the Minnesota Star Tribune for its attorneys fees, among other relief.
“This case is not only about one newsroom,” said Emily Peterson, general counsel for the Minnesota Star Tribune. “It is about ensuring that public agencies follow the law and that journalists — and the public — can scrutinize the actions of those in power.”
The Minnesota Star Tribune remains committed to transparency, accountability, and the public-interest journalism that depends on meaningful access to public records.
About The Minnesota Star Tribune
The Minnesota Star Tribune is an innovative modern media organization building on an extraordinary 158-year legacy. With seven Pulitzer Prizes and hundreds of other awards, the Minnesota Star Tribune boasts the Midwest’s largest news organization and is an unrivaled force for journalistic excellence in Minnesota and beyond. As the heart and voice of the north, the Minnesota Star Tribune is on a journey to create the leading model for local news in America – driving innovation in media to make every Minnesotan’s life better. For more information, visit www.startribunecompany.com.