Minnesota's Federal Courts Close Due To 'Security Threats'

TWIN CITIES, MN — All federal buildings and courthouses in Minnesota will be closed Sunday through Thursday after "security threats" were made against the offices in the district. Federal court officials in the state say they consulted with the U.S. Marshals Service and the General Services Administration to make the decision.

The reported threats come after the deadly Jan. 6 insurrection at the U.S. Capitol by supporters of President Donald Trump, and the FBI issuing a report detailing possible threats of violence in Minnesota.

From now through Wednesday's inauguration of President-elect Joe Biden, the FBI will lead a 24-hour command post in Minnesota to facilitate information and intelligence-sharing among law enforcement agencies.

In addition to federal agents, the Minnesota National Guard, Department of Public Safety, State Patrol, DNR conservation officers, and local police agencies are all planning for potential violence that could break out locally ahead of the inauguration.

Officials are asking Minnesotans who do not have business at the Capitol to consider visiting at another time, and note the following changes at the complex:

— State Patrol troopers, Department of Natural Resources conservation officers and National Guard soldiers will be visible and available to respond to various threats.

— Traffic restrictions will be in place around the Capitol. Foot traffic will be allowed; however, only state agency employees, contractors, deliveries and those with official state business will be able to drive in the restricted area around the Capitol.

Law enforcement officials are also asking anyone who sees suspicious activity in the area around the Capitol to call 911.

"It's easy to overlook routine moments, but when something doesn't seem quite right, it's important to say something," the Minnesota Department of Safety said in a news release. "Being alert and reporting suspicious activity to local law enforcement is a way to help protect the community."