New data from the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension paints a disturbing picture of when violent crimes are most likely to happen in the state, with an unexpected peak time for rapes. According to the agency's Minnesota Crime Data Explorer, information released on their Facebook page reveals that, between 2021 and 2024, the window of 8 p.m. to midnight was most prevalent for violent offenses, however, rape incidents were more frequent from Noon to 3 p.m., notably on Tuesdays.

Officials are drawing attention to these findings on the eve of Denim Day, an annual event aimed to support survivors and promote a better understanding of sexual assault – this year, the public is encouraged to wear denim on April 25th to show solidarity for those affected by such traumas. The BCA’s data not only challenges assumptions about the timing of these heinous acts but also serves as a call to action for communities to be more vigilant during times when these crimes are most prevalent, not just after dark when the guard is typically up, but also during broad daylight when one tends to believe safety is a given.

In light of this information and the approaching Denim Day, communities across Minnesota are poised to stand in defiant solidarity; they don denim to weave a tapestry of support that stretches across the state, through cities and counties, enveloping the survivors in an embrace of compassion, of understanding that says their voices are heard, their pain is acknowledged, and their healing is a purpose shared. It's clear that as we navigate our daily lives, the lessons drawn from these statistics must inform our actions and the support we extend to survivors, tomorrow, on Denim Day, and every day thereafter.