To keep you up to date with what is happening in cities near your hometown, Patch will be providing regular updates of police, fire and crime related incidents in the west metro.

The following is a collection of articles that recently appeared on Patch sites in Edina, Golden Valley, Hopkins, Lake Minnetonka, Minnetonka, Maple Grove, Plymouth, Richfield, Shakopee, St. Louis Park and St. Michael. Click on the headline to read the full story.

Police Say Dead Toddler Lived Among Garbage and Dead Animals

Cotrell Short was found unresponsive when police and paramedics responded to his St. Bonifacius home back in February.

Man Permanently Injured After Downtown Shakopee Fight

The victim's mother and police are calling for anyone who has information about the incident to come forward.

Man Acquitted of Assaulting Maple Grove Police Officer

Trevor Don Morlock was found not guilty of two charges stemming from a December incident. The Hennepin County Attorney’s Office filed a petition for judicial commitment.

Plymouth Woman Charged With Biting Police Officer

Leah Marie Hautla-Koskie is charged with biting a Hopkins police officer and a paramedic who were trying to transport her to a hospital.

BLOTTER: Trumpet Taken from Middle School, GTA at 50th & France

The Edina Police Department's Crime Activity Report for April 16-22.

Burglar Goes Unnoticed By Homeowners During Robbery

The Richfield Public Safety Department releases its most recent crime reports.

Student Charged with Stealing Classmate's iPhone

Nathaniel Jimmy Kpaahkpai is accused of snatching the phone from his classmate's hand, then threatening to beat him up when he asked him to return it.

Man gets 10 Days for Role in 2011 Memorial Day Crash

Ritchie Elliot, who caused a crash Memorial Day weekend in Albertville, was sentenced last month.

Undercover Sting Targets Two Hopkins Massage Parlors

Officers arrested two masseuses on suspicion of prostitution. They have been charged with gross misdemeanors.

70 Dangerous Items Taken From People at Suburban Courts

The prohibited items were taken during the first week of weapons screening at Brookdale, Southdale and Ridgedale courts.

Blotter: Groin Kicks, Monkeys and Bananas

A weekly selection of incidents drawn from Hopkins police files.

Golden Valley Steps Up Search for Firefighters

Golden Valley is looking for more firefighters to join the team.

Locals Invited to Enjoy 'Coffee with the Chief' at Senior Center

Edina Police Chief Jeff Long to hold a discussion of community issues on Wednesday, May 9.