Editor’s Note: This news release contains follow-up information from the Advisory Committee on Capitol Area Security meeting that happened at 2 p.m. today (Jan. 7).

ST. PAUL — A comprehensive independent security assessment of the Minnesota State Capitol complex found that while current security staff are professional and committed, targeted improvements — including access controls, weapons screening and updated technology — are needed to meet modern safety expectations while keeping the Capitol open and accessible to the public.

The Minnesota State Patrol released an executive summary of the assessment today. The remaining reports contain sensitive security information that is not public under Minnesota law. The executive summary is available here.

The assessment emphasizes the importance of recognizing concerning behavior early and responding thoughtfully and appropriately with the goal of preventing harm while respecting individual rights and keeping the Capitol open and welcoming. Early awareness, clear communication and coordinated response help ensure potential concerns are addressed before they escalate, the assessment notes. 

“This independent review gives us a clear understanding of what we’re facing and helps ensure any next steps are guided by facts,” said Minnesota State Patrol Col. Christina Bogojevic. “It provides a common starting point as we work with public officials and others at the Capitol to determine the best path forward.”

The Axtell Group, a nationally recognized security consulting firm, conducted the assessment in fall 2025 and examined four primary buildings within the Capitol complex: the State Capitol, the Minnesota Senate Building, the Centennial Office Building and the Minnesota Judicial Center.

The assessment team observed that Minnesota State Patrol troopers, Capitol security officers and legislative Sergeant-at-Arms staff consistently demonstrated professionalism, situational awareness and a strong commitment to public service. The report notes a culture of adaptation and continuous improvement among security personnel.

“Protecting a Capitol complex that is historic, highly visible and open to the public requires constant evaluation and adjustment,” said Col. Bogojevic. “This assessment confirms the dedication of the people doing this work every day and helps identify where systems, collaboration and infrastructure can be strengthened to meet today’s security challenges.”

While the assessment produced hundreds of observations and recommendations, they align with several broad security categories that represent opportunities to strengthen safety, operational continuity and long-term resilience at the State Capitol complex.

Key findings

Weapons screening and visitor safety

The assessment recommends a consistent weapons and hazardous materials screening model to keep dangerous items out of public spaces and keep the Capitol complex safe for employees, public officials and visitors.

Employee and contractor access controls

The assessment found inconsistencies in employee and contractor entrance practices and recommends standardizing credentials, enhancing security measures at staff entrances and improving oversight to reduce unauthorized entry to buildings. 

Managing movement within buildings

Inside buildings, the assessment recommends improving how elevators are accessed and monitored so the public can still use shared areas, but people cannot easily reach staff-only or secure work areas without authorization.

Perimeter and exterior safety

The assessment found opportunities to strengthen exterior security measures, such as additional lighting, barriers and security camera coverage to better manage vehicle and pedestrian movement and reduce risks during high-activity events.

Staffing models, readiness and coordination

The review recommends greater consistency in staffing strategies, defined roles and responsibilities as well as strengthening communications systems so security staff have greater awareness of what’s happening and are well-positioned to respond during both routine events and emergencies.

Technology and system integration

The assessment found that updating cameras, improving how security systems analyze activity, expanding alarm coverage and connecting systems into one shared platform would help security teams operate more effectively.

Emergency preparedness and response

The assessment recommends better coordination across the complex, adding basic first-responder resources and creating a single emergency action plan for all Capitol complex buildings.

Identifying and addressing potential safety concerns early

Protective intelligence helps security staff spot concerning behavior early and take appropriate action before a situation escalates. Strengthening this approach helps prevent incidents, improves response during emergencies and supports quicker recovery afterward. The State Patrol has already made improvements in this area by adding investigative staff who work more closely with the Bureau of Criminal Apprehension.

Changes already implemented

While the assessment was being conducted, the Minnesota State Patrol proactively implemented several changes, including:

• Assigning a Minnesota State Patrol investigator at the Bureau of Criminal Apprehension’s Fusion Center to look closely at any threats received against the Capitol complex and state officials in real time. This investigator also provides direct line of communication to State Patrol leadership and Capitol security staff with any critical threat updates.
• Increasing oversight of Capitol security operations to Lt. Col. Jeremy Geiger.
• Separating captain responsibilities into distinct operations and legislative liaison roles, which provides a strong focus on operations, greater coordination with lawmakers and increased accountability.
• Adding 16 Capitol security officers, three more sworn troopers and increasing the dispatch staff working at the Capitol.
• Dedicating more resources to enhance communication with state lawmakers and officials to quickly address any security concerns they bring forward.
• Making improvements to entrance access, door security, alarms, security camera technology and card access systems.
• Providing additional emergency drill, response and emergency medical training on the Capitol complex.
• Providing additional Capitol security training to all troopers statewide.
• Conducting onsite visits to state capitols around the nation to compare security best practices.

The State Patrol continues to review all aspects of Capitol security and evaluate additional improvements.

Next steps

The assessment does not include cost estimates for recommended security measures. According to the report, cost projections require additional planning and policy decisions beyond the scope of a security evaluation.

The Axtell Group’s assessment will continue to be discussed by the Advisory Committee on Capitol Area Security (ACCAS). ACCAS is an advisory committee and does not have the power to appropriate funds or make direct changes to public safety laws or protocols. Security changes will be guided by policy decisions, budget considerations and coordination among stakeholders.