The number of permits to carry firearms spiked in Minnesota in the last year, according to the Department of Public Safety’s annual report.

On average, about 10,000 more people received permits to carry in 2012 than in previous years. Across the state, 31,657 people got their permits in 2012, compared to 20,772 in 2011. Mower County had 614 approved permits in 2012.

In 2010, 17,240 people obtained permits throughout the state. Other years are: 22,378 in 2009 and 21,646 in 2008.

Sheriffs reported nine permits suspended, two revoked, six voided and 285 denied in 2012.

As of Friday, the total number of valid permits in Minnesota was 125,339.

Minnesota law enforcement agencies reported to the BCA in 2012, people with permits committed 296 crimes. Almost half were DWIs or other traffic offenses.

The Bureau of Criminal Apprehension in 2013 became aware that not all police departments have submitted data on crimes and on justifiable use of firearms by permit holders as required by Minnesota law. As a result, the data in this report may not reflect the total criminal activity nor the total justifiable uses by permit holders. The BCA is communicating with local agencies to remind them of their responsibility to provide this data in the future.

Minnesota’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.

Law enforcement agencies are then required to report their data on gun permit applications, issuances and denials to the BCA. The BCA compiles the public information provided by Minnesota law enforcement agencies into its annual report.