The Mankato Department of Public Safety files more Extreme Risk Protection Orders (ERPOs) than any other agency in Minnesota, having submitted 25 requests since the state’s red flag law took effect in 2024. This figure significantly surpasses those from larger cities such as Minneapolis, which recorded 19 ERPO requests, and St. Paul with 14, highlighting Mankato’s proactive approach to gun safety. Public Safety Director Jeremy Clifton cites the department’s training and dedication to utilizing this tool effectively as key factors in their leading role.
In recent years, the use of red flag laws has gained traction across Minnesota, with statewide applications expected to double in 2025. Notably, Mankato’s strategy involves thorough officer training aimed at quickly identifying individuals posing risks to themselves or others, with over 60 firearms confiscated in the last two years. This focus on immediate community safety underscores Mankato’s commitment to balancing the right to bear arms with the urgent need to prevent potential tragedies.
Read full story at www.fox9.com
