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What Percentage of Violent Crimes Are Committed With a Firearm?

Understanding the role of firearms in violent crimes is crucial for public safety. You might be wondering, What percentage of violent crimes are committed with a firearm in Minnesota?

In Minnesota, a significant percentage of violent crimes are committed with a firearm, including homicides, aggravated assaults, and robberies. For example, 66% of homicides in Minnesota in 2022 involved a gun, and between 2019 and 2024, the use of firearms in aggravated assaults increased by 59%.

With decades of experience in criminal defense, I understand the far-reaching consequences of gun violence. In this article, I’ll explore the trends in firearm-related violent crimes in Minnesota, highlighting key statistics and shifts over recent years.

 

What Percentage of Violent Crimes are Committed with a Firearm: The Impact and Legal Consequences

A study by the United States Department of Justice shows 13 percent of all violent crime victims report that the alleged attacked was armed with a firearm. A smaller percentage involve the actual use of a firearm. What percentage of violent crimes are committed with a firearm in the United States and in the State of Minnesota is important to understanding how law and policy are shaped and applied.

While the rate of violent crime has fallen steadily since the mid 1990’s, prosecutors in Minnesota and throughout the United States still aggressively pursue these crimes. Firearm-related offenses routinely carry steep penalties upon a conviction.

If you have been accused of a weapons charge in Minnesota, you are entitled to a strong defense. A weapons charges lawyer from Gerald Miller are ready to assist you in defending your rights and fighting back against these charges. Call right away for a free consultation.

 

Understanding Firearm Violence

Firearm violence is a multifaceted issue that profoundly impacts individuals, families, and communities across the United States. It stands as a leading cause of death and injury, particularly among children and teens. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), firearm-related deaths have become a significant public health concern. In 2022 alone, there were 4,124 firearm-related deaths among children and teens in the United States. This alarming statistic underscores the urgent need for effective measures to address gun violence and protect vulnerable populations.

Statistics and Percentages – Firearms and Crime in the United States

There are many different statistics that point to the high rate of gun-related criminal offenses in the United States. For example, the National Crime Victimization Survey shows that more than 467,000 people reported being a victim of a crime involving a firearm in 2011 alone.

Firearms are especially common in murder investigations. In 2011, the FBI reported that firearms were involved in roughly 68 percent of all murders throughout the country. Guns were also present in over 40 percent of all robberies and 20 percent of all aggravate assault allegations, as well.

Despite these high numbers, the firearm homicide rate has remained a significant concern, highlighting the ongoing challenges in reducing gun violence. The number of fatal and non-fatal gun crimes has fallen substantially since 1994. According to the National Institute of Justice, nonfatal firearm crime has dropped by nearly 60 percent since 1994.

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Sources and Characteristics of Crime Guns

Crime guns, or firearms used in the commission of crimes, are a critical focus in the effort to curb gun violence. Understanding where these guns come from and their specific characteristics can help in developing strategies to reduce their prevalence and misuse.

Sources of Crime Guns

Crime guns can originate from various sources, each contributing to the broader issue of gun violence:

  • Legally Purchased Firearms: Some crime guns start as legally purchased firearms that are later used in criminal activities.
  • Stolen Firearms: Theft is a significant source of crime guns. Stolen firearms often end up in the hands of criminals.
  • Straw Purchases and Trafficking: Straw purchases, where someone buys a gun on behalf of another person who is prohibited from owning one, and illegal trafficking are common ways crime guns enter the black market.
  • Ghost Guns: These are privately made firearms that lack serial numbers, making them difficult to trace. Ghost guns are increasingly used in crimes due to their anonymity.

According to the Bureau of Justice Statistics, in 2019, about 10% of crime guns were sourced from retail outlets where background checks are mandatory. However, the majority come from street sources, such as theft or illegal trafficking.

Characteristics of Crime Guns

Crime guns vary widely in their characteristics, which can influence their use in criminal activities:

  • Type: Handguns are the most frequently used firearms in crimes, followed by rifles and shotguns.
  • Caliber: The caliber of a firearm affects its lethality, with larger calibers generally being more deadly.
  • Serial Number: The presence or absence of a serial number can determine how easily a firearm can be traced. Crime guns often have altered or removed serial numbers.
  • Origin: Crime guns can originate from various states or countries. States with weaker gun laws often contribute more significantly to the flow of crime guns.

Firearm Charges and Offenses in Minnesota

Understanding what percentage of violent crimes are committed with a firearm in Minnesota can show the general temperature of crime in the state. While the reported use of firearms in violent crime have dropped over the years, the State of Minnesota still aggressively pursues all manner of gun-related offenses. Many of these charges carry significant prison terms as well as other collateral consequences. Some common examples of firearm offenses in Minnesota include:

Unlawful Possession of a Firearm by Certain Convicted Felons

A felony criminal conviction has many consequences outside of potential prison time or fines. Most felons also lose the right to own, possess, or carry a firearm. This ban applies not only to firearms but ammunition as well.

Specifically, the firearms ban applies to crimes of violence like murder, assault, and robbery. However, it also applies to felony offenses that do not directly involve violence like drug offenses or theft. A conviction of a qualifying felony will result in the loss of the right to own a firearm. This is a serious criminal charge that can lead to as many as 15 years in prison and a fine of up to $30,000.

Negligent Storage of Firearms

State law also penalizes the negligent storage of firearms. Gun owners are held responsible for storing and maintaining firearms in a certain way, even when they are not on in the gun owner’s direct possession. This gross misdemeanor typically involves carelessly storing a weapon in a place where a minor could find it. A conviction could net up to a year in jail and a fine of no more than $3,000.

Removing a Serial Number Federally and Under Minnesota Law

Federal law requires that every firearm in the United States carry a serial number in order to be tracked. Minnesota law makes it a criminal offense to alter the serial number on a firearm in any way. This includes attempting to destroy the number, conceal it, or alter it. Removing a serial number from a firearm could lead to as many as five years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000.

 

Gun Theft and Trafficking

Gun theft and trafficking are major contributors to the proliferation of crime guns. The FBI reported that in 2019, over 1 million firearms were stolen from private citizens and reported to authorities. These stolen guns frequently end up in criminal hands, exacerbating gun violence.

Gun trafficking, involving the illegal transfer of firearms, is another critical issue. This can occur through straw purchases or other illicit means. The rise of ghost guns, which are privately made and lack serial numbers, has further complicated efforts to trace and control crime guns. These untraceable firearms are increasingly favored by criminals seeking to avoid detection.

Addressing the sources and characteristics of crime guns is essential in the fight against gun violence. By tackling issues like gun theft, trafficking, and the proliferation of ghost guns, we can work towards reducing firearm-related deaths and injuries across the United States.

The Societal Impact of Gun Violence

Gun violence has far-reaching effects that extend beyond the immediate victims of crime. The high number of gun deaths, including both homicides and suicides, underscores the urgent need for comprehensive strategies to address firearm violence. The impact of firearm-related violence touches communities, families, and public health in several key ways.

Psychological Trauma and Long-Term Effects

Victims of gun violence, including those who survive gun homicides, often face lifelong psychological challenges. PTSD, anxiety, depression, and a host of other mental health issues are common among individuals who have been exposed to gun violence, whether as a victim, witness, or first responder. Communities that experience high levels of gun violence may face generational trauma, leading to cycles of violence and difficulties in achieving social stability.

Strain on Healthcare Systems

Firearm violence also places a significant burden on the healthcare system. Emergency rooms, trauma centers, and mental health services are often overwhelmed by the aftermath of shootings. The financial costs of treating gunshot wounds, both acute and long-term, contribute to rising healthcare expenses, further straining public resources.

Impact on Communities and Economic Stability

High rates of gun violence can deter investment in communities, leading to economic decline. Businesses may avoid operating in high-crime areas, which can result in job losses and increased poverty. Additionally, communities with frequent gun violence face challenges in building trust with law enforcement, further exacerbating the cycle of crime.

 

Firearm Legislation in Minnesota and Its Impact on Crime Rates and Firearm Homicide Rate

Minnesota has enacted a variety of laws aimed at reducing gun violence and regulating firearm use. Understanding these regulations is crucial for grasping how they influence violent crime statistics and their enforcement.

Minnesota Gun Laws and Regulations

Minnesota has a mix of both state-level and federal firearm laws that govern gun ownership, possession, and use. Some key provisions include:

  • Permit to Carry: Minnesota requires individuals to obtain a permit to carry a handgun in public. This law is intended to ensure that only law-abiding citizens are permitted to carry concealed or open firearms.
  • Background Checks: Federal law requires background checks for firearm purchases, and Minnesota has additional regulations for private sales, requiring background checks for handguns.
  • Red Flag Laws: Minnesota does not have a formal “red flag” law, which allows for the temporary removal of firearms from individuals deemed to pose a threat to themselves or others. However, there are efforts in the state to introduce such legislation.

The Debate Over Gun Control and Second Amendment Rights

Gun control remains a deeply polarizing issue in the United States, including in Minnesota. Proponents of stricter gun laws argue that tightening regulations could reduce the number of gun-related violent crimes, while opponents claim that such laws infringe on Second Amendment rights. The debate often intensifies following a mass shooting, with calls for stricter regulations to prevent such tragedies. Recent debates focus on banning assault weapons, enhancing background checks, and implementing more effective tracking systems for gun ownership.

State-Specific Trends in Firearm Legislation

Minnesota’s relatively lenient laws on concealed carry and gun ownership have raised concerns among those who advocate for stricter regulations. The state has also seen a rise in mass shootings, which has fueled the debate over the need for stricter gun control measures. While Minnesota has seen an overall decline in firearm-related crimes since the 1990s, the increase in certain violent crime categories, particularly aggravated assaults and robberies, raises questions about the effectiveness of current gun laws.

How Firearm Violence Affects the Criminal Justice System in Minnesota

The rise in firearm-related violent crime significantly impacts Minnesota’s criminal justice system, leading to increased law enforcement efforts, complex legal cases, and longer sentences for those convicted.

Law Enforcement Response

Minnesota law enforcement agencies have ramped up their focus on tackling firearm-related crimes. The surge in record gun sales during the pandemic years has further complicated law enforcement efforts to control the proliferation of firearms. Special task forces are often dedicated to combating gun violence, and state and federal authorities collaborate in tracking and seizing illegal firearms. The Minneapolis Police Department, for instance, has created specialized units for addressing gun violence and gang activity, which are often interlinked.

Court Proceedings and Sentencing

The use of firearms in crimes like assault, robbery, and homicide can influence court proceedings. In addition to intentional crimes, the courts also deal with cases involving unintentional firearm injuries, which can result in severe legal consequences. Judges often impose harsher sentences for crimes involving guns due to the perceived severity and danger posed by firearms. For example, in Minnesota, certain crimes, such as aggravated assault, carry enhanced penalties when committed with a firearm.

The Role of Prosecutors in Firearm-Related Crimes

Prosecutors in Minnesota often pursue aggressive charges in cases involving firearms. Firearm-related offenses can lead to life-altering convictions, especially if a defendant has prior criminal history. Prosecutors will typically work to ensure that firearm-related charges are handled swiftly and with maximum penalties, reflecting the serious nature of gun violence.

Prevention and Solutions to Firearm Violence

While the challenges posed by firearm-related crime are significant, there are a number of strategies that can help reduce gun violence and its impact on communities.

Community-Based Solutions and Gun Violence Prevention Programs

Various community-based programs have been proven effective in reducing gun violence. Initiatives like Operation Peacemaker Fellowship in Minnesota provide mentorship, support, and intervention for individuals at risk of engaging in violence. These programs aim to address root causes such as poverty, lack of education, and substance abuse, while also encouraging non-violent conflict resolution.

Education and Advocacy for Safe Firearm Practices

Public education campaigns focused on gun safety and the importance of responsible gun ownership can help reduce accidental shootings and improper firearm use. Programs such as the National Rifle Association’s (NRA) “Eddie Eagle” gun safety program promote firearm education in schools to teach children about the dangers of firearms and how to safely interact with them.

Reforming Gun Laws and Enhancing Accountability

Advocates for stronger gun regulations in Minnesota push for the introduction of measures like expanded background checks for all firearm sales and the implementation of “red flag” laws. Advocates argue that such reforms could lead to a significant reduction in violent crime rates, making communities safer. Such reforms could help ensure that firearms are kept out of the hands of individuals who are likely to use them for violence, while also enhancing accountability for those who possess firearms illegally.

Mental Health Initiatives

Since mental health plays a significant role in violent crime, particularly in cases where individuals suffering from untreated mental illness are involved, increasing access to mental health services could be a key strategy in reducing gun violence. Minnesota has already introduced some initiatives aimed at better integrating mental health care with criminal justice processes.

 

Reach Out to Gerald Miller to Discuss Your Minnesota Firearms Charge

No matter the nature of the offense, any gun charge has the potential for serious consequences. If you have been accused of a firearm-related offense, a conviction could result in the loss of your gun rights and even time behind bars.

The attorneys of Gerald Miller understand the serious consequences that can come with a firearm conviction. Our team is prepared to protect your constitutional rights and advocate for you throughout the course of your case. Let our attorneys work tirelessly to build the strongest defense available under the law. Call (612) 341-9080 right away to get started with a free consultation.

 

Resources:

  1. Minnesota Department of Public Safety – Crime Statistics
  2. Bureau of Justice Statistics – Gun Crime Overview
  3. Gun Violence Archive – U.S. Firearm Statistics
  4. Minnesota Crime and Gun Violence Trends – Bureau of Criminal Apprehension 

 

FAQ

1. What percentage of homicides in Minnesota are committed with a firearm?

In Minnesota, 66% of homicides in 2022 involved a firearm. This trend has continued, with firearms playing a significant role in violent crime. (Minnesota Department of Public Safety)

2. Has gun violence increased in Minnesota in recent years?

Yes, gun violence in Minnesota has risen. In 2023, 530 people died from gun violence in the state, showing a steady increase in gun-related deaths. (Gun Violence Archive)

3. How has the use of firearms in aggravated assaults changed in Minnesota?

Since 2015, the use of firearms in aggravated assaults in Minnesota has increased by 69%. Between 2017 and 2021, this share grew by 59%. (Bureau of Justice Statistics)

4. Are firearms used more in robberies in Minnesota?

Yes, since 2015, the proportion of guns used in robberies has increased by 52%. Between 2017 and 2021, this share increased by 50%. (Minnesota Crime and Gun Violence Trends)

5. What trends are we seeing in gun violence across Minnesota?

The proportion of murders committed with firearms has increased over the past decade. Additionally, high-powered guns and large quantities of ammunition have been recovered more frequently at crime scenes. (Minnesota Department of Public Safety)


About the author

Gerald Miller

Gerald Miller is a top-notch and experienced DWI/DUI lawyer at Gerald Miller P.A. in Minneapolis, MN. He has more than 35 years of experience in Criminal Defense practice. He has also been a mentor to numerous DUI/DWI defense attorneys.

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