A McDonald’s restaurant in Uptown Minneapolis has decided to lock its dining room doors during operating hours due to increasing concerns about safety. Effective from December 5, 2023, the restaurant will keep its doors locked and monitored from 5:00 AM to 10:00 PM to create a safer environment for both customers and staff. This decision follows previous attempts to address safety issues through community-based initiatives.
The franchise, which has been a part of the Uptown community for over 30 years, is responding to a notable rise in crime in the area. According to police data, Minneapolis has recorded a staggering 4,473 violent crimes this fiscal year, including 2,839 cases of aggravated assault and 65 homicides. These statistics have prompted an increased focus on public safety by local authorities and federal agencies.
Owner and operator Mike Darula stated, “At our Uptown restaurant, we’ve made some updates to our security measures to help ensure a safe and welcoming environment for both our crew and customers.” The announcement, attached to the restaurant’s door, explicitly mentions that access will be denied to individuals deemed a risk to safety.
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security has ramped up its efforts in the Twin Cities area as part of Operation Metro Surge. This initiative has led to recent arrests of individuals identified as “child sex offenders, domestic abusers, and violent gang members.” Tricia McLaughlin, Assistant Secretary of Homeland Security, emphasized that law enforcement is committed to protecting residents, stating, “No matter when and where, ICE will find, arrest and deport all criminal illegal aliens.”
This move by McDonald’s reflects a broader trend in the city, as businesses and community leaders increasingly prioritize safety amid rising crime rates. With a total of 11 McDonald’s locations in Minneapolis, the franchise remains a significant part of the local economy and community fabric.
As cities navigate the challenges posed by crime and safety, the decisions made by businesses like McDonald’s highlight the ongoing struggle to balance community engagement with the imperative of ensuring customer and employee safety. The Uptown McDonald’s, by locking its dining room, is taking a proactive stance in response to the evolving landscape of urban safety concerns.
