Report Shows Gun Permits Down 30 Percent In 2014

MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO/AP) - Minnesota issued 30 percent fewer permits to carry firearms in 2014 than in 2013, reversing an upward trend.

People with firearm permits committed 1,320 crimes in 2014, according to a Department of Public Safety report released Sunday. More than half were DWIs or other traffic offenses.

The number of firearm permits issued by the Bureau of Criminal Apprehension had climbed each year since 2010, reaching 60,471 in 2013. In 2014, 41,493 permits were issued, 15 were suspended, six revoked, 22 voided and 422 denied.

There are now 181,402 valid permits in Minnesota.

The top counties for permits issued last year are Hennepin, Anoka, Dakota, Ramsey and St. Louis.

Individuals who want a handgun carry permit apply at their local sheriff's office and must provide proof of approved firearms training. Sheriff's departments then check FBI, state and local records for any disqualifying information. Individuals who are denied a permit have the right to appeal.

Law enforcement agencies are then required to report their data on gun permit applications, issuances and denials to the BCA.

Year   Permits Issued
2014    41,493
2013    60,471
2012    31,657
2011    20,772
2010   17,240
2009   22,378