Milwaukee third quarter crime data shows homicides down; robbery & auto theft up

 

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- Milwaukee leaders are sharing new data on crime across our city. Officials say overall major crime decreased by four percent and homicides went down 22 percent.

The data shared looks at Milwaukee Police reports from January through September and compares the 2024 numbers to where we were this time last year. While major violent crime appears to be decreasing, city leaders say there are still concerns about other issues.

Robbery saw a three-percent spike from this time last year, while auto theft and carjacking are also still a problem.

Auto thefts are at a four-percent increase and carjackings have spiked 17-percent from this time last year. Going into the colder months, officials are urging folks to stay vigilant.

"Do not leave your car unattended as you're warming it up. Regarding those breaking into autos, ensure that you're putting up personal property. Do not leave things out to the enticement to those who want to do property crime," said MPD Chief Jeffrey Norman.

"Improving safety is too important. It's too high a priority for us to ease up," said Mayor Cavalier Johnson.

Thinking bigger picture, The Office of Community Wellness and Safety says the city must continue efforts to address the root causes of crime. "Poverty, limited access to education, unemployment, mental health issues, and a lack of affordable housing all play a significant role in fostering environments where crime can thrive," said Director Ashanti Hamilton.

City leaders continue to encourage community involvement when it comes to crime reduction and point to Milwaukee Crime Stoppers as a resource for anonymously reporting crimes in the community. To reach Crime Stoppers, call 414-224-TIPS.