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A Division of the Minnesota Department of Public Safety

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News Releases

BCA identifies deputies who used force during Minnetonka incident

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4/16/2024 7:30:00 PM

ST. PAUL – The Hennepin County Medical Examiner’s Office has identified the man killed during a use-of-force incident April 10 in Minnetonka. According to the medical examiner, Clint Hoyhtya, 28, of Minnetonka died of multiple gunshot wounds. The Minnesota Department of Public Safety Bureau of Criminal Apprehension (BCA) has identified four Hennepin County sheriff’s deputies who discharged their firearms during this incident. They are all currently on standard administrative leave.• Christopher Heihn fired his department rifle. He has eight years of law enforcement experience.• Tyler Jacob fired his department rifle. He has eight years of law enforcement experience.• Keith McNamara fired his department rifle. He has 23 years of law enforcement experience.• Steven Tomasko fired his department handgun. He has 15 years of law enforcement experience.According to the preliminary investigation, deputies from the Hennepin County Sheriff’s Office went to a home in Minnetonka to arrest a person wanted for multiple felonies. The warrant was not for Hoyhtya, but for another person who lives at that address. When the deputies knocked on the front door and announced themselves, Hoyhyta started shooting at them with an assault-style rifle. The deputies returned fire and backed away to set up a perimeter. Hoyhtya was wearing a tactical vest with ballistic plates during the shooting but was fatally struck by the deputies’ gunfire and died at the scene.Deputies Heihn and McNamara were also injured during the incident. McNamara was struck by shrapnel and was treated at the scene. Heihn was shot multiple times, taken to HCMC for treatment and has since been released.BCA crime scene personnel recovered an assault rifle and dozens of cartridge casings at the scene. The incident was captured on body-worn cameras. BCA agents are reviewing all available video as part of the active investigation.The Hennepin County Sheriff’s Office asked the BCA to investigate this incident. Once the investigation is complete, the BCA will present its findings without a charging recommendation to the Hennepin County Attorney’s Office for review. ### <div> </div>

4/16/2024 11:04:00 PM

A Division of the Minnesota Department of Public Safety ST. PAUL – The Hennepin County Medical Examiner’s Office has identified the man killed during a use-of-force incident April

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Department of Public Safety Commissioner Bob Jacobson selects Christina Bogojevic as new chief of the Minnesota State Patrol

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4/11/2024 6:00:00 PM

ST. PAUL — Interim Col. Christina Bogojevic will be the Minnesota State Patrol's next colonel, Department of Public Safety Commissioner Bob Jacobson announced. Bogojevic has been with the State Patrol for more than 20 years and has served as second in command since December 2022.“Interim Col. Bogojevic brings a wealth of knowledge, leadership and dedication, not only to the organization, but to law enforcement as a whole," Jacobson said. “She embodies the State Patrol's core values and cares deeply for the people with whom she works with and serves. I am confident she will continue to make a positive impact within the State Patrol and communities across our state."Bogojevic joined the State Patrol in 2003. Prior to being named lieutenant colonel, she served as captain of the Rochester district, mobile response commander, lieutenant in the Commercial Vehicle section, investigator, recruiter and crash reconstruction specialist.“Working for the State Patrol is so much more than a job to me. It's a passion. I care deeply about our people and our mission. I'm honored to have the opportunity to serve as chief," Bogojevic said. “I look forward to working with Minnesota State Patrol staff and allied agencies who work so hard to keep residents safe on Minnesota roadways."Bogojevic said she looks forward to collaborating on new ideas and efforts to lower Minnesota's traffic fatality rate, which is up this year when compared to last year. She's also passionate about developing innovative ways to recruit and retain troopers.Bogojevic (Bogo-YAY-vich) was named interim colonel following Col. Matt Langer's announcement that he was leaving the State Patrol for a position with the International Association of Chiefs of Police. She will officially take over as colonel on May 2.  ###

4/11/2024 5:17:06 PM

A Division of the Minnesota Department of Public Safety CONTACT: Nicole Roddy 651-201-7571 nicole.roddy@state.mn.us Jill Frankfurth

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State of Minnesota awards traffic safety vehicle grants to nine law enforcement agencies

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4/10/2024 5:00:00 PM

ST. PAUL — The Minnesota Department of Public Safety Office of Traffic Safety (OTS) is awarding $642,325 in grants to nine law enforcement agencies for new traffic safety vehicles. The grants will allow each agency to buy a specialized pickup truck law enforcement officers can use to conduct traffic enforcement from a higher vantage point. It will allow them a better view to see if drivers are distracted, not wearing their seat belt or engaging in other dangerous driving behaviors.“We need to get creative in how we're combating the unacceptable driving behaviors and rising deaths we're seeing on our roads," said OTS Director Mike Hanson. “People are dying because drivers are selfishly making terrible choices. These trucks are not going to be the entire answer, but this tool will help our law enforcement partners raise the awareness of these critical traffic safety issues and help change behavior — and we'll take any help we can get." Traffic safety vehicle grant recipients:  <ul style="list-style-type:disc;"><li>Orono Police Department</li><li>St. Paul Police Department</li><li>Blaine Police Department</li><li>Olmsted County Sheriff's Office</li><li>Eagan Police Department</li><li>Grand Rapids Police Department</li><li>Brooklyn Park Police Department</li><li>Washington County Sheriff's Office</li><li>Elk River Police Department</li></ul>“When we respond to a crash, we see far too often how a dangerous choice can take a life or seriously hurt the people involved. By then, it's too late," said Olmsted County Sheriff Kevin Torgerson. “The higher vantage point of the traffic safety vehicle will help us see distractions, unbelted passengers and child restraint issues and intervene before something terrible happens."The grantees plan to collaborate with other local enforcement in their areas during high-visibility enforcement campaigns to maximize the vehicle's use. Recipients will also use the new vehicles to educate the public on safe driving through community engagement events at local schools, public health agencies and businesses.OTS received the funding for this project from the 2023 Minnesota Transportation Omnibus bill. Each agency was required to match 20 percent of the total equipment costs in order to demonstrate a vested interest and commitment to the program. Traffic fatalities:Preliminary numbers show traffic fatalities are up more than 61 percent on Minnesota roads (Jan. 1-April 10) compared to the same time last year.<ul style="list-style-type:disc;"><li>2024: 84 fatalities         </li><li>2023: 52 fatalities</li></ul>Distracted driving:Law enforcement agencies are participating in the statewide distracted driving extra enforcement and awareness campaign through April 30.<ul style="list-style-type:disc;"><li>Distracted driving contributed to nearly 30,000 crashes in Minnesota from 2019-2023 (preliminary figures).</li><li>Distracted driving contributed to an average of 29 deaths and 146 life-changing injuries a year in Minnesota from 2019-2023.</li></ul>Visit <a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.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.L4iqg19LvBhGyjd76_SseR4ols1WQMxUpDxHw4p_Uy4/s/638866450/br/157207024462-l">HandsFreeMN.org</a> and <a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.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.RcJQO15ATrQMAOyCM7HlH5wnlQGLtXyAZfcm_-llPp4/s/638866450/br/157207024462-l">DriveSmartMN.org</a> for more statistics and safe driving information. About the Minnesota Department of Public SafetyThe Minnesota Department of Public Safety's 2,100 employees operate programs in the areas of law enforcement, crime victim assistance, traffic safety, alcohol and gambling, emergency communications, fire safety, pipeline safety, driver licensing, vehicle registration and emergency management. DPS activity is anchored by three core principles: education, enforcement and prevention.About the Office of Traffic SafetyThe Minnesota Department of Public Safety Office of Traffic Safety (OTS) designs, implements and coordinates federally funded traffic safety enforcement and education programs to improve driver behaviors and reduce the deaths and serious injuries that occur on Minnesota roads. These efforts form a strong foundation for the statewide <a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vbG5rcy5nZC9sL2V5SmhiR2NpT2lKSVV6STFOaUo5LmV5SmlkV3hzWlhScGJsOXNhVzVyWDJsa0lqb3hNRE1zSW5WeWFTSTZJbUp3TWpwamJHbGpheUlzSW5WeWJDSTZJbWgwZEhCek9pOHZkM2QzTG0xcGJtNWxjMjkwWVhSNlpDNXZjbWN2SWl3aVluVnNiR1YwYVc1ZmFXUWlPaUl5TURJME1ESXdNUzQ0T1RVeE9EQTJNU0o5LmxqTlJhOVVCOUt4MXc3Yk9keWk1alloaHlDX2s3LVZSODJVQUhSS05MYUkvcy82Mzg4NjYzNjIvYnIvMjM2NDA1MDk3MTUwLWwiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwNDEwLjkzMTQ5MDQxIn0.E1zAaW538IjjIfEB8mzUEjlYNYhl_QzvMmcAxe0X4wg/s/1235541401/br/240473263435-l">Toward Zero Deaths</a> traffic safety program. OTS also administers state funds for the motorcycle safety program, child seats for needy families program and school bus stop arm camera project.###

4/10/2024 4:54:42 PM

A Division of the Minnesota Department of Public Safety CONTACT: Nicole Roddy 651-201-7571 nicole.roddy@state.mn.us Dave Boxum

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BCA shares new details on force incident near Chanhassen

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4/3/2024 12:30:00 AM

ST. PAUL – The Minnesota Department of Public Safety Bureau of Criminal Apprehension (BCA) has confirmed the identity of the woman and a police officer involved in a pursuit and use-of-force incident March 26 near Chanhassen. Amanda Nelson, 33, of Bloomington was treated for minor injuries and has since been taken into custody and charged in connection to the incident.The BCA has also identified the South Lake Minnetonka police officer who used force during this incident. <ul><li>Zachary Robertson fired his department handgun. He has 18 years of law enforcement experience and is on standard administrative leave. </li></ul>According to the preliminary investigation, Robertson conducted a vehicle records check of a license plate while on patrol and the records showed the vehicle belonged to Nelson, along with showing an active aggravated assault arrest warrant for her from Illinois. Robertson tried to pull over Nelson's vehicle, but she did not stop and a pursuit began. Another South Lake Minnetonka police officer joined the pursuit and used a pursuit intervention tactic (PIT) to stop Nelson near the North Coop Restaurant in Excelsior, Minn. The officer saw that Nelson had a gun and alerted dispatch and Robertson over the radio. Robertson drove his squad car in front of Nelson's vehicle to prevent her from driving away. She pointed a gun at him and, while inside his squad car, Robertson fired his gun at her multiple times through his windshield. She was not injured and drove away from the scene.  Both officers pursued Nelson and used another PIT maneuver to stop her near highways 41 and 5, causing her vehicle to become disabled. Nelson was arrested without incident several hours later, taken to a hospital for treatment and is now in custody at the Carver County Jail. BCA crime scene personnel recovered a black Smith & Wesson BB gun air pistol from inside Nelson's vehicle. The incident was captured on both body camera and squad car cameras. BCA agents are reviewing all available video as part of the active investigation. The South Lake Minnetonka Police Department asked the BCA to investigate this incident. Once the investigation is complete, the BCA will present its findings without a charging recommendation to the Carver County Attorney's Office for review. ###

4/3/2024 12:26:20 AM

A Division of the Minnesota Department of Public Safety Amanda Nelson, 33, of Bloomington was treated for minor injuries and has since been taken into custody and charged in

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Choose to pay attention: distraction-free driving is safe driving

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3/29/2024 2:00:00 PM

ST. PAUL — Scrolling through social media on your cell phone. Unwrapping that delicious cheeseburger. Checking that work email that someone just sent. Those are all fine — from the comfort of your couch. Behind the wheel? They could be deadly. That’s why law enforcement agencies and traffic safety partners are dedicating extra time in April to educate motorists, enforce the hands-free cell phone law and help stop other distracting behaviors.Distracted driving contributed to nearly 30,000 crashes in Minnesota from 2019-2023 (preliminary figures). The distracted driving extra enforcement and awareness campaign runs April 1-30 and focuses on promoting safety and preventing tragedy. The Minnesota Department of Public Safety Office of Traffic Safety (OTS) coordinates the statewide campaign with funding from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. It <a href="https://www.dropbox.com/sh/uzwkx1v5v6mnh6h/AADZNc25z_Sfj7sGeke0Qk8la/-%20FY24/FY24%20Distracted%20Driving/MEDIA?dl=0&subfolder_nav_tracking=1" title="link to distracted campaign advertising" target="_blank">includes advertising</a> in support of the Toward Zero Deaths traffic safety program. “Simply put, a two-ton vehicle with a distracted driver behind the wheel can steal a life,” said OTS Director Mike Hanson. “Don’t fool yourself. You're distracted anytime you shift your attention from driving. It can be challenging, but for everyone’s safety, focus on driving.” <h3>Distracted driving is dangerous driving </h3>Preliminary figures for Minnesota show:<ul><li>Distracted driving contributed to one in 11 crashes from 2019-2023.</li><li>Distracted driving contributed to an average of 29 deaths and 146 life-changing injuries a year from 2019-2023.</li></ul><table cellspacing="0" width="100%" class="ms-rteTable-default"><tbody><tr><td class="ms-rteTable-default" style="width:14.2857%;">Distracted Driving</td><td class="ms-rteTable-default" style="width:14.2857%;">2019</td><td class="ms-rteTable-default" style="width:14.2857%;">2020</td><td class="ms-rteTable-default" style="width:14.2857%;">2021</td><td class="ms-rteTable-default" style="width:14.2857%;">2022</td><td class="ms-rteTable-default" style="width:14.2857%;">2023</td><td class="ms-rteTable-default" style="width:14.2857%;">Total</td></tr><tr><td class="ms-rteTable-default">Fatalities</td><td class="ms-rteTable-default">34</td><td class="ms-rteTable-default">32</td><td class="ms-rteTable-default">27</td><td class="ms-rteTable-default">22</td><td class="ms-rteTable-default">33</td><td class="ms-rteTable-default">148</td></tr><tr><td class="ms-rteTable-default">Serious Injuries</td><td class="ms-rteTable-default">153</td><td class="ms-rteTable-default">161</td><td class="ms-rteTable-default">154</td><td class="ms-rteTable-default">126</td><td class="ms-rteTable-default">136</td><td class="ms-rteTable-default">730</td></tr></tbody></table> <h3>Hands-free cell phone use is the law </h3>The hands-free cell phone use law means drivers can’t hold their phone in their hand. Accessing or posting on social media, streaming videos, checking that box score or Googling information on a device while driving are against the law in Minnesota, even in hands-free mode.<h3>Distracted driving consequences</h3><ul><li>Hands-free cell phone law: The law allows a driver to use their cell phone to make calls, text, listen to music or podcasts and get directions, but only by voice commands or single-touch activation without holding the phone. Remember, hands-free is not necessarily distraction-free. </li><ul><li>$100 or more including court fees for a first offense.</li><li>$300 or more including court fees for a second and/or subsequent offense.</li></ul><li>If you injure or kill someone while violating the hands-free law, you can face a felony charge of criminal vehicular operation or homicide.</li></ul><h3>Drive smart and join Minnesotans driving distraction-free </h3><ul><li>Cell phones — Park the phone by putting it down, activating the “Do Not Disturb” feature, silencing notifications, turning it off, placing it out of reach or going hands-free.</li><li>Music and other controls — Pre-program radio stations and arrange music in an easy-to-access spot. Adjust mirrors and ventilation before traveling.</li><li>Navigation — Map out the destination and enter the GPS route in advance.</li><li>Eating and drinking — Avoid messy foods and secure drinks.</li><li>Children — Teach children the importance of good behavior in a vehicle and model proper driving behavior.</li><li>Passengers — Speak up to stop drivers from distracted driving behavior and offer to help with anything that takes the driver’s attention off the road.</li></ul>Visit <a href="/divisions/ots/hands-free/Pages/default.aspx" title="link to hands free cell phone driving information" target="_blank">HandsFreeMN.org</a> and <a href="/divisions/ots/drive-smart/Pages/default.aspx" title="link to safe driving information" target="_blank">DriveSmartMN.org</a> for more information. <h3>About the Minnesota Department Public Safety </h3>The Minnesota Department of Public Safety (DPS) comprises 10 divisions where 2,100 employees operate programs in the areas of law enforcement, crime victim assistance, traffic safety, alcohol and gambling, emergency communications, fire safety, pipeline safety, driver licensing, vehicle registration and emergency management. DPS activity is anchored by three core principles: education, enforcement and prevention.<h3>About the Office of Traffic Safety </h3>The Minnesota Department of Public Safety Office of Traffic Safety (OTS) designs, implements and coordinates federally funded traffic safety enforcement and education programs to improve driver behaviors and reduce the deaths and serious injuries that occur on Minnesota roads. These efforts form a strong foundation for the statewide <a href="https://www.minnesotatzd.org/" title="link to toward zero deaths program information" target="_blank">Toward Zero Deaths</a> traffic safety program. OTS also administers state funds for the motorcycle safety program, child seats for needy families program and school bus stop arm camera project. ###

4/1/2024 8:11:03 PM

A Division of the Minnesota Department of Public Safety CONTACT: Dave Boxum 651-201-7569 dave.boxum@state.mn.us Nicole Roddy

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BCA identifies officer who used force in Oakdale incident

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3/14/2024 8:35:00 PM

ST. PAUL – The Minnesota Department of Public Safety Bureau of Criminal Apprehension (BCA) has identified the Oakdale police officer who used force March 11 while responding to a domestic incident. • Andrew Dickman fired his department handgun. He has three years of law enforcement experience and is on standard administrative leave. The man involved in the incident, Devione Malone, 25, of Oakdale was not hurt and now faces multiple charges out of Washington County District Court.According to the preliminary investigation, Oakdale police responded to a home just before midnight on a report of a woman asking for help. Malone had left the home in a vehicle with the woman and a child but returned after a brief pursuit with law enforcement. After he got out of the car, Malone fired shots at the officers. That’s when Dickman returned fire. Once inside the home, Malone continued to shoot at officers. He surrendered after a brief standoff. The woman and child involved in the incident were not hurt.BCA crime scene personnel recovered cartridge casings and a handgun at the scene. The officers who responded were wearing body cameras, including Dickman. There is also squad camera video of the incident. BCA agents are reviewing all available video as part of the active investigation. The Oakdale Police Department asked the BCA to investigate this incident. Once the investigation is complete, the BCA will present its findings without a charging recommendation to the Washington County Attorney’s Office for review. ### <div> </div>

3/14/2024 8:31:17 PM

A Division of the Minnesota Department of Public Safety • Andrew Dickman fired his department handgun He has three years of law enforcement experience and is on standard

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BCA identifies people involved in Saint Michael force incident

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3/8/2024 9:15:00 PM

ST. PAUL – The Midwest Medical Examiner's Office has confirmed the identity of a man shot and killed March 2 by a Wright County Sheriff's deputy in Saint Michael. According to the medical examiner, Jeffrey Chapman, 67, of Albertville died from multiple gunshot wounds.The Minnesota Department of Public Safety Bureau of Criminal Apprehension (BCA) has identified the Wright County deputy who shot Chapman during this incident.<ul><li>Austin Feenstra fired his department handgun. He has about 10 months of law enforcement experience and is on standard administrative leave.</li></ul>According to the preliminary investigation, Feenstra tried to pull over Chapman at about 4:45 a.m. for erratic driving, including weaving and slowing down then accelerating suddenly. Chapman drove for about two blocks before he stopped his car, got out and walked toward Feenstra. Despite Feenstra issuing verbal commands, Chapman continued to approach him. Feenstra kept backing away but Chapman followed him, at one point pulling out a length of pipe from his waistband. Feenstra fired his gun, striking Chapman multiple times. Officers performed life-saving care, but Chapman died at the scene. BCA crime scene personnel recovered a nine-inch metal pipe and cartridge casings at the scene. Feenstra initially said over the radio that Chapman was holding a knife, but saw when he was providing medical aid that it was a length of pipe. A folding knife was later found in Chapman's car but was not involved in this incident. The Wright County Sheriff's Office does not have body cameras so there is no body camera video of this incident. A squad car camera captured portions of the incident. BCA agents are reviewing all available video as part of the active investigation. The Wright County Sheriff's Office asked the BCA to investigate this incident. Once the investigation is complete, the BCA will present its findings without a charging recommendation to the Wright County Attorney's Office for review.###

3/8/2024 9:14:01 PM

A Division of the Minnesota Department of Public Safety ST. PAUL – The Midwest Medical Examiner's Office has confirmed the identity of a man shot and killed March 2 by a Wright

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BCA releases 2023 Permit to Carry Annual Report

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3/1/2024 5:00:00 PM

ST. PAUL — The Minnesota Department of Public Safety Bureau of Criminal Apprehension (BCA) today released the 2023 Permit to Carry Report, which contains data submitted by Minnesota law enforcement agencies regarding applications made for handgun carry permits as well as data about permit holders. The annual report is required by Minnesota law.Minnesota saw approximately the same number of firearms permits issued in 2023 as in 2022. Minnesota sheriffs reported to the BCA that 77,952 permits were applied for and that they issued 65,215 permits in 2023.<table cellspacing="0" width="100%" class="ms-rteTable-default"><tbody><tr><td class="ms-rteTable-default" style="width:50%;">Year</td><td class="ms-rteTable-default" style="width:50%;">Permits issued</td></tr><tr><td class="ms-rteTable-default">2023</td><td class="ms-rteTable-default">65,215</td></tr><tr><td class="ms-rteTable-default">2022</td><td class="ms-rteTable-default">65,257</td></tr><tr><td class="ms-rteTable-default">2021</td><td class="ms-rteTable-default">106,488</td></tr><tr><td class="ms-rteTable-default">2020</td><td class="ms-rteTable-default">96,554</td></tr><tr><td class="ms-rteTable-default">2019</td><td class="ms-rteTable-default">51,404</td></tr><tr><td class="ms-rteTable-default">2018</td><td class="ms-rteTable-default">66,053</td></tr></tbody></table>The top five counties for five-year permits issued by sheriffs in 2023 are:<table cellspacing="0" width="100%" class="ms-rteTable-default"><tbody><tr><td class="ms-rteTable-default" style="width:50%;">County</td><td class="ms-rteTable-default" style="width:50%;">Permits issued</td></tr><tr><td class="ms-rteTable-default">Hennepin</td><td class="ms-rteTable-default">7,363</td></tr><tr><td class="ms-rteTable-default">Anoka</td><td class="ms-rteTable-default">4,819</td></tr><tr><td class="ms-rteTable-default">Dakota</td><td class="ms-rteTable-default">4,199</td></tr><tr><td class="ms-rteTable-default">Washington</td><td class="ms-rteTable-default">3,564</td></tr><tr><td class="ms-rteTable-default">Ramsey</td><td class="ms-rteTable-default">3,524</td></tr></tbody></table>Sheriffs reported there were 222 permits suspended, 51 revoked, 1,307 voided and 789 denied in 2023.Crimes committed by permit holdersMinnesota sheriffs reported that individuals with permits committed 4,701 crimes in 2023. This is the highest number since the state's Personal Protection Act was enacted, but the percent of permit holders who committed a crime (1 percent) was consistent with recent prior years.<ul style="list-style-type:disc;"><li>Just over 3 percent were crimes where firearms were used in furtherance of a crime.</li><li>Just under 60 percent were DWIs or other traffic offenses.</li><li>Fifteen percent were from the “Other" category which includes both less serious offenses such as city ordinance violations and DNR hunting, fishing and recreational vehicle violations and less common but more serious offenses such as stalking and riot.</li></ul>As of today, the total number of valid permits in Minnesota is 402,520.The Permit to Carry Report contains data on permits to carry a firearm. Minnesota does not track permits to purchase firearms.About the Minnesota Permit to CarryMinnesota's Personal Protection Act was first enacted in 2003. Permits were first eligible for renewal in 2008. Individuals wishing to obtain a Minnesota Permit to Carry must apply for the permit at their local sheriff's office and provide proof of approved firearms training. Sheriffs then must follow a statutorily-defined process, checking FBI, BCA and DHS records as well as their own data for any disqualifying information. Individuals denied a permit have the right to appeal the denial.Minnesota sheriffs are then required under Minnesota law (<a href="https://www.revisor.mn.gov/statutes/?id=624.714">Minn. Stat. §624.714, subd. 20 (b)</a>) to report their data on gun permit applications, issuances and denials to the BCA. As directed by same statute, the BCA compiles the public information provided by Minnesota sheriffs into its annual report.The full report is available for viewing on the BCA website at <a href="/divisions/bca/bca-divisions/administrative/Pages/firearms.aspx">https://dps.mn.gov/divisions/bca/bca-divisions/administrative/Pages/firearms.aspx</a>.###

3/1/2024 4:24:37 PM

A Division of the Minnesota Department of Public Safety The annual report is required by Minnesota law Minnesota saw approximately the same number of firearms permits issued in 2023

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BCA shares new details in Burnsville incident

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2/22/2024 9:50:00 PM

ST. PAUL – The Minnesota Department of Public Safety Bureau of Criminal Apprehension (BCA) continues to actively investigate the Feb. 18 incident in Burnsville during which two police officers and a firefighter/paramedic were killed. According to the Hennepin County Medical Examiner, officers Matthew Ruge and Paul Elmstrand and firefighter/paramedic Adam Finseth died of gunshot wounds. They were shot by Shannon Gooden, 38, of Burnsville, who the medical examiner determined died of a self-inflicted gunshot wound.The BCA has identified three Burnsville police officers who discharged their firearms during this incident. <ul><li>Sgt. Adam Medlicott fired his department handgun. He has 14 years of law enforcement experience.</li><li>Officer Javier Jimenez fired his department rifle. He has eight years of law enforcement experience. </li><li>Officer Daniel Wical fired his department rifle. He has eight years of law enforcement experience.</li></ul>According to the preliminary investigation, officers responded to a home in Burnsville just before 2 a.m. after receiving reports of a domestic incident. When they arrived, they spoke with Gooden, who refused to leave the home but said he was unarmed and had children inside. The officers entered the home and negotiated with Gooden for about three and a half hours in an effort to get him to surrender peacefully. At about 5:26 a.m., Gooden opened fire on the officers inside the home without warning. Ruge, Elmstrand and Medlicott are believed to have been initially shot inside the home. Medlicott and Wical returned fire while inside the home, striking Gooden in the leg. Both Ruge and Medlicott were shot a second time as officers were moving from the home to an armored vehicle in the driveway. That's when Finseth was shot while trying to aid the officers. Elmstrand, Ruge and Finseth were all later pronounced dead at Hennepin County Medical Center.Gooden continued to fire shots out of the home at officers and the armored vehicle that had personnel inside. At one point, while Gooden was shooting out of an upstairs window, Jimenez returned fire with his sniper rifle. The standoff ended when Gooden took his own life. The SWAT team found his body when they cleared the house at 10:15 a.m.BCA crime scene personnel recovered several firearms and a large amount of ammunition at the scene. They also recovered numerous cartridge casings. Gooden fired more than 100 rifle rounds at law enforcement and first responders during the incident. There is body camera and squad car camera video of the incident. BCA agents are reviewing all available video as part of the active investigation. The Burnsville Police Department asked the BCA to investigate this incident in its entirety, including what led to the 911 call, the incident itself and the officers' use-of-force. Once the investigation is complete, the BCA will present its findings without a charging recommendation to the Dakota County Attorney's Office for review.###

2/22/2024 9:46:45 PM

A Division of the Minnesota Department of Public Safety According to the Hennepin County Medical Examiner, officers Matthew Ruge and Paul Elmstrand and firefighter/paramedic Adam

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Missing and murdered Indigenous relatives license plate now available

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2/14/2024 9:00:00 PM

ST. PAUL – In the Ojibwe language, “Gaagige-Mikwendaagoziwag” (gah-GHEE-gay-MICK-when-da-go-ZEE-wahg) means, “They will be remembered forever.” That’s exactly what the <a href="/divisions/ojp/mmir/Pages/default.aspx" target="_blank" title="MMIR Office website" rel="noopener">Minnesota Missing and Murdered Indigenous Relatives (MMIR) Office</a> and the Gaagige-Mikwendaagoziwag Reward Fund Board aim to do with the release of a special license plate on this MMIR Day of Remembrance. The new MMIR plate features a red handprint, which symbolizes the historic silencing of the violence that Indigenous people have faced for generations and the dedication to hearing those voices moving forward. The ribbon skirt includes the sacred colors (red, white, yellow and black) of the four directions: north, south east and west. “Our missing and murdered Indigenous relatives deserve more than just one day,” said MMIR Office Director Juliet Rudie. “Their cases, as well as their loved ones’ cries for justice, have gone silent for far too long.” The Bureau of Criminal Apprehension’s Minnesota Crime Data Explorer shows that there were six reported Indigenous victims of homicide or non-negligent manslaughter in Minnesota last year. That accounts for 4.41 percent of all reported homicides or non-negligent manslaughters. In 2023 alone, the MMIR Office supported 13 cases with services and resources. Staff also conducted referrals or consults on eight additional cases. Visibility is key. This license plate amplifies the stories of Minnesota’s missing and murdered relatives. On Feb. 14, Minnesotans bring visibility to MMIR cases in places like Minneapolis, Bemidji, Duluth and throughout Indian Country. “Every year, families march while carrying signs with their loved one’s name and picture,” said Rudie. “Now they can also buy an MMIR plate to spread awareness every day, with each mile they travel.” This new plate will be available for order on Feb. 14. It is made on demand so it can be customized. It will cost $15.50 and requires a minimum $25 annual contribution to the <a href="/divisions/ojp/mmir/Pages/reward-fund.aspx" target="_blank" title="Gaagige-Mikwendaagoziwag Reward Account webpage" rel="noopener">Gaagige-Mikwendaagoziwag Reward Account.</a> Funds from the reward account will bring awareness to cases, educate the public and prevent future cases. The reward fund board recently developed a policy that will consider rewards for tips that lead to a resolution with MMIR cases through an arrest, conviction or return of the individual. This plate joins several tribal nations within Minnesota that also have special MMIR license plates. They include: Bois Forte Band of Chippewa, Fond du Lac Band of Lake Superior Chippewa and Grand Portage Band of Lake Superior Chippewa. Visit drive.mn.gov to order an MMIR license plate online or find an office to buy them in person. <div style="text-align:center;"><img src="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/fancy_images/MNDPS/2024/02/8990833/mmir-license-plate_original.png" alt="MMIR License Plate" style="width:570px;height:auto;" />  </div><div style="text-align:center;">###</div> About the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Relatives (MMIR) Office In 2021, Gov. Tim Walz signed into law the legislation that established the first-in-the-nation MMIR Office. Staff began its inaugural year of work in 2023. <ul><li>The MMIR Office is here to help if a loved one goes missing. Families must reach out after opening an active missing persons case with law enforcement.<ul><li>When a loved one is missing, time is critical! There is no required waiting period to report a loved one missing to law enforcement.</li><li><a href="https://forms.office.com/pages/responsepage.aspx?id=RrAU68QkGUWPJricIVmCjBC8psPjRlVPuDzgEiM0J-5UQ0hSSVcyVTJNUUlCOUtUSDJWM1JTSTFPWC4u" target="_blank" title="Request MMIR Office services" rel="noopener">Request MMIR Office services.</a></li></ul></li></ul>Staff are housed in the Department of Public Safety Office of Justice Programs (OJP) and will work to implement the recommendations of the 2019 Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women Task Force. <a href="/divisions/ojp/mmir/Documents/2023-mmir-annual-report-final.pdf" target="_blank" title="Read the MMIR Office’s 2023 annual report" rel="noopener">Read the MMIR Office’s 2023 annual report.</a> About the Minnesota Department of Public Safety The Minnesota Department of Public Safety (DPS) comprises 10 divisions where 2,200 employees operate programs in the areas of law enforcement, crime victim assistance, traffic safety, alcohol and gambling, emergency communications, fire safety, pipeline safety, driver licensing, vehicle registration and emergency management. DPS activity is anchored by three core principles: education, enforcement and prevention.

2/14/2024 9:28:58 PM

A Division of the Minnesota Department of Public Safety . PAUL – In the Ojibwe language, “Gaagige-Mikwendaagoziwag” (gah-GHEE-gay-MICK-when-da-go-ZEE-wahg) means, “They will be

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