Driver's License Arrests Are 'Epidemic,' Police Chief Says

MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) - One in six drivers stopped by police on Minneapolis streets do not have a driver's license.

A Department of Justice study found that 37 percent of all Minneapolis arrests in 2014 are from drivers without licenses and the warrants from those stops.

That's almost 15,000 out of 40,000 arrests.

Minneapolis Police Chief Janee Harteau wants to begin a conversation on how to fix what she calls an "epidemic."

"It's very systemic," she said. "Somebody already lives in an impoverished area. They don't have the ability to get resources. There is no behind-the-wheel driving facility in the city of Minneapolis."

Harteau said most driver's license arrests happen in North Minneapolis.

She said it enters people into the system and becomes a vicious cycle that needs to be addressed.

Harteau hopes to speak with other city and community leaders about finding some kind of solution.