Mpls Block Club Helping Solve Crimes

MINNEAPOLIS - A club in the metro is helping solve crimes and keep the streets safe. Leaders say it's working and they're looking for more people to get involved.

Joani Essenburg started building roots in the East Phillips neighborhood, nearly 20 years ago.

“I’m a community minded person,” said Essenburg. “I just wanted to get to know my neighbors." Essenburg organized a block club to help combat crime, and eventually started a non-profit group.

The Banyan Community Center blossomed from Essenburg's commitment. Now, she runs a popular after-school program, for low income kids.

The sense of community started with a single block club.

Minneapolis police want to see more neighbors organize, especially in high crime neighborhoods.

A stranger rape in the Standish neighborhood and an increase in home break-ins, are generating more interest.

Essenburg's block helped stop drug dealers by putting up a mobile camera near 25th and Bloomington, and setting up a barricade.

Neighbors understand their voice is much louder, when they stand up and speak out together.