Special Coverage

Teacher showed ‘predatory grooming behaviors’ with Eagan High girls, police detective concluded
Minnesota has layers of state laws and procedures designed to prevent inappropriate relationships between teachers and students. The case of one former Eagan educator raises questions about how well that system works.
Independent dispensaries drown as recreational cannabis supply shortage drags on
With limited options to buy cannabis, small business owners running licensed cannabis dispensaries in Minnesota are left in limbo about when they can get recreational product on their shelves. One shop owner says he may have to close before he can sell.
Minnesota is armoring its shorelines with rocks, but lakes are paying a price
Homeowners increasingly layer rocks on their shores to prevent lake shorelines from eroding. But experts say rock riprap increases pollution and warms lakes, creating conditions that spur algae blooms. And often, it’s not necessary.
Four Minneapolis officers were accused of excessive force — and now train other police
The Minneapolis police officer who fatally shot Amir Locke and until recently led MPD’s use-of-force training is not the only trainer whose record has raised concerns over the department’s commitment to changing its culture.
In new U study, questions resurface over wakesurfing’s impact on Minnesota lakes
Newly released University of Minnesota research finds wakesurfing in water that’s too shallow can damage lake quality. The study could revive calls for statewide restrictions and may churn the debate over the state’s changing lake culture.
Minneapolis officer who fatally shot Amir Locke heads MPD’s new use-of-force training
Police chief Brian O’Hara said Sgt. Mark Hanneman, who’s been with MPD for nearly a decade,  is an “outstanding” trainer committed to bringing positive change to MPD. But Locke’s family and other community members say nothing justifies placing the officer who shot and killed a 22-year-old Black man at the helm of use-of-force training. 
‘Sticker shock’: Inflation, Ozempic drive health care costs higher for Minnesota schools
School districts across Minnesota are struggling to contain double-digit health insurance cost increases. Some officials say inflation and accelerating prescription costs, especially for new weight loss drugs, are to blame.