Milwaukee Activists Face New Reality Under Trump
'A lot of disillusionment, disappointment, frustration' -- and a call to regroup.
Nov 13th, 2024
Milwaukee Woman Part of Nationwide Group To Receive Racist ‘Plantation’ Texts
Racially-motivated messages threaten recipients, use their names.
Nov 7th, 2024
Harassing Letters and Vandalism Target Democrats in Kenosha
Warnings of biblical hellfire if they don't vote for Trump.
Nov 4th, 2024
Milwaukee Park & Ride Closures Disperse Growing Unhoused Population
Advocates, supervisors worry shuttering sites isn't solving underlying issues.
Oct 29th, 2024
‘Black Voters Matter’ Campaign Focuses on MATC Students
'We Fight Back' campaign spends weekend in Milwaukee.
Oct 14th, 2024
Indigenous-Led Campaign Launches to Support Medical Marijuana
New public awareness effort called 'Wisconsin Wellness' pushing for legalization.
Sep 4th, 2024
Federal Lawsuit Charges Discrimination Against Student at Whitefish Bay School
Claims Black student bullied and school staff ignored, misrepresented family's complaints.
Aug 28th, 2024
Families of Sam Sharpe and Dvontaye Mitchell Hold Rally
Sharpe was killed during RNC, Mitchell died in earlier incident involving hotel security guards.
Jul 19th, 2024
Surveillance Technology Never Left Milwaukee After the DNC
Police gear acquired 4 years ago will play a role during the Republican Convention.
Jun 27th, 2024
Families Express Concern With High Prices, Poor Reliability of Wisconsin Prison Phones
‘We pay $2.50 for a visit, and most of the time they won’t connect, or they’ll cut out in the middle of the visit.’
Jun 24th, 2024
ACLU Urges Citizen Oversight of Police Surveillance
Pushes CCOPS ordinance which requires public hearing for any new or existing technology.
May 20th, 2024
Milwaukee Officials Praise Rescheduling of Cannabis by Biden
New federal policy 'will help reverse longstanding injustices in our legal system.'
May 20th, 2024
Activists Demand Robert Spindell’s Removal From Elections Commission
One of 10 fake electors, he also backed suppression of minority vote in Milwaukee.
May 1st, 2024
The Long Road To End Solitary Confinement in Wisconsin
"The hole" is torture on those confined to it argue opponents at legislative action day.
Apr 26th, 2024
How Will Milwaukee Handle Protests At The RNC?
Concerns grow as city hasn’t approved permit for coalition of activists.
Apr 15th, 2024
Future of Lincoln Hills Remains In Limbo
Troubled youth prison needs to meet consent decree terms, or compliance monitoring will follow system to new facility.
Apr 12th, 2024
Milwaukee Police Seek ‘Open Source Intelligence Tool’ for RNC
'It snoops on everyone, regardless of any connection to a crime,' critic charges.
Apr 2nd, 2024
Lawsuit Over Police Officer’s Fatal Shooting of Alvin Cole Will Go to Trial
Judge Lynn Adelman rules that civil lawsuit over killing by former Tosa cop may go forward.
Mar 30th, 2024
Police Chief Jeffrey Norman Talks Crime, Guns and RNC
Milwaukee's top cop appeared before the Milwaukee Press Club Thursday.
Mar 8th, 2024
Milwaukee Landlord Berrada Drops Lawsuit Against Tenants Union
Lawsuit 'a retaliatory measure for tenant organizing in Berrada buildings,' group charges.
Feb 26th, 2024
State of the Tribes Speech Emphasizes Diversity
Potawatomi chairman James Crawford notes diversity of 11 tribes and their common needs.
Feb 24th, 2024
Tranq Testing Strip Bill Passes Assembly
Strips test for horse tranquilizer xylazine increasingly mixed with heroin, opioids.
Feb 22nd, 2024
GOP Bill To Limit John Doe Cases Against Police Passes Legislature
Officers involved in shootings can currently face charges from judges after prosecutors decline.
Feb 16th, 2024
Milwaukee Officials, Climate Advocates Praise Clean Energy Projects
Biden's $2.55 billion Clean Energy Plan funding projects in Wisconsin.
Feb 6th, 2024
GOP Bill Ends John Doe Cases Against Police Involved in Fatal Shootings
Law being 'abused' by vengeful families, activists, and lawyers, legislator says.
Feb 5th, 2024
Police Like GOP’s John Doe Bill, Victims’ Advocates Don’t
Proposal seeks to end investigations into officers who claim to have killed someone in self defense.
Jan 12th, 2024
Lawsuit Could Change Curfews in State
Suit by Rep. Clancy argued that mayors can't declare curfew without approval of city council members.
Dec 18th, 2023
Milwaukee Police Have New Phone Surveillance Technology
ACLU says next generation technology raises serious questions about privacy rights.
Nov 27th, 2023
Psychedelic Research Blooms in Wisconsin
Bipartisan bill backs pilot program to study the effects of psilocybin on combat PTSD.
Nov 20th, 2023
State Democrats Introduce Bill To Limit Book Bans
Proposal would set high standards for instituting ban, seeks cosponsors.
Nov 10th, 2023
Milwaukee Sheriff Releases Video of Deputy Punching Girl at Zoo
Incident occurred after lengthy encounter as group struggled to find way to leave zoo property.
Nov 7th, 2023
Family Has Questions About Sheriff Deputy Striking Teen Girl On Video
Bystander video shows deputy striking teenager, mother questions Milwaukee County Sheriff's Office claim.
Oct 26th, 2023
State Has Nation’s 2nd Highest Racial Disparity in Imprisonment
Report: Wisconsin's Black residents 11.8 times more likely than whites to be jailed.
Oct 2nd, 2023
Unrest in County Jail Shows Chronic Problems
A staff shortage, deteriorating facility and 'dreadful' grievances from inmates.
Sep 11th, 2023
Kenosha PD Arrest of Wrong Man, Viral Video Leads To Internal Investigation
Video appears to show officer striking man repeatedly in head.
Aug 11th, 2023
Berrada Sues Milwaukee Tenants Union For Defamation
Mega-landlord's lawsuit focuses on November fire and group's subsequent claims.
Aug 10th, 2023
Narcan Vending Machines Arrive in County
The free-to-use vending machines contain fentanyl testing strips, nasal naloxone and other overdose reduction products.
Aug 8th, 2023
Republican Proposal Would Make Wiretaps Easier, But Might Violate Federal Law
Proposal would allow expanded use of pen registers, trap-and-trace devices.
Jul 30th, 2023
Federal Trial Hears Charge of ‘Unlawful’ Arrest in 2016 by Milwaukee Police
Lawsuit charges ACLU legal observer and (then) state Rep. Brostoff wrongfully arrested.
Jul 12th, 2023
Federal Judge Rules in Favor of Mukwonago Trans Student
Tensions over LGBTQ issues continue in Waukesha County schools.
Jul 10th, 2023
Some Progress, Still Problems at Lincoln Hills
Staffing better but youth complain about food, ‘hands-on’ staff and racism at youth facility.
Jul 9th, 2023
GOP Bill Requires UW to Admit Top 5% Of All High School Graduates
Including from all other states. How would this impact Wisconsin's low-income students?
Jul 3rd, 2023
Report Finds 1000% Increase in Fentanyl-Related Deaths
4,300 deaths in state over six-year period linked to synthetic opioids, namely fentanyl.
Jun 13th, 2023
Bill Would Increase Penalties For Those Supplying Drugs That Lead To Death
But some legislators, including Ryan Clancy, speak out against increasing reckless homicide penalty.
Jun 8th, 2023
Zoning Board Approves Capitol Drive Addiction Treatment Clinic
Community Medical Services approved to open at N. 76th St. and W. Capitol Dr.
Jun 5th, 2023
Experts Discuss Milwaukee’s Plague of Overdose Deaths
Milwaukee Overdose Response Initiative confronts a fatal overdose every 16 hours.
May 30th, 2023
GOP Bill Would Restrict Books, Prosecute School Staff
Goal is to 'help school districts do their jobs to prevent obscene material.'
May 14th, 2023
Tosa Protest Assails Federal Court Decision Exonerating Police
Many of marchers were on Wauwatosa police's 'target list' they say was illegal.
May 9th, 2023
Wauwatosa ‘Target List’ Trial Begins
Lawsuit charges police violated federal laws in their reaction to 2020 BLM protests.
May 3rd, 2023
Tenants Union Calls for More Legal Aid
City-county program has increased legal representation, but 84% of those facing eviction still have no lawyer.
Apr 25th, 2023
Police Union Blasts Video Releases
Assails 'reckless' FPC rule requiring video of any critical incident released to victim’s family in 48 hours, to public in 15 days.
Apr 24th, 2023
Milwaukee Wants 4,500 Police For RNC
City would house additional officers from across the state and country.
Apr 15th, 2023
West Allis Man Is Guilty Of Harassing Black Neighbors
William McDonald, 45, pleads guilty to felony and misdemeanor charges.
Apr 3rd, 2023
Traffic Citations in City Down 54% Since 2017
Dropping from 71,402 citations issued in 2017 to 33,105 in 2022. Why?
Mar 28th, 2023
Coyote Hunting Causes Protests in Wauwatosa
Protesters fear other animals will be hurt by steel jawed coyote traps.
Mar 21st, 2023
Bill Hikes Jail Time In Drug Overdose Cases
Republican bill ups penalty for reckless homicide by delivering drugs to 60 years in prison.
Mar 21st, 2023
State Residents Paid $36 Million in Illinois Marijuana Taxes in 2022
Nonpartisan Legislative Fiscal Bureau study shows revenue lost annually by Wisconsin.
Mar 20th, 2023
Advocates Push for Evidence-Based Bail Laws
Calling for risk assessment tools, opposing Republican bail ballot referendum.
Mar 18th, 2023
Judge Throws Out First Amendment Challenge to Wauwatosa Curfew, Others Claims Remain
Remaining claim, due for trial May 1, focuses on "target list."
Mar 17th, 2023
Drone Flights by Sheriff’s Office Declined in 2022
Drone flights tracking protestors in 2021 were criticized. Big decline since then.
Mar 13th, 2023
Kenosha Residents Denounce Board Appointments Connected To 2020 Unrest
Two members of equity commission resigned in protest. Appointes include those with connections to Kyle Rittenhouse, earlier police shootings.
Mar 10th, 2023
Bill Would Require Armed School Resource Officers
Republican proposal requires all schools to track crimes, hire officer after enough incidents.
Mar 6th, 2023
Legislature Urged to Remove All Racial Covenants
Wauwatosa council votes to dissolve its old covenants, pushes legislators for statewide bill.
Feb 28th, 2023
Will Police Officers Return to MPS Schools?
Activist groups oppose proposal, reportedly being discussed by MPD and school district.
Feb 24th, 2023
Evers’ Budget Funds Affordable Housing, Tenant Legal Support
Help for low-income renters would have significant impact in Milwaukee.
Feb 14th, 2023
Controversial Brookfield Alderman Avoids Censure
City residents voice support for Ald. Kris Seals, who condemned affordable housing.
Feb 12th, 2023
City Residents Push for Lead Cleanup at ARPA Meeting
Coalition on Lead Emergency questions how last $92 million in federal funds will be spent.
Feb 6th, 2023
U.S. Navy Experiments on Animals Canceled at UW-Madison
Protests of experiments inducing decompression sickness in sheep.
Feb 4th, 2023
Brieon Green’s Family Questions Video, Transparency of Sheriff
Video of Green's suicide and deputy sheriffs handling of him incomplete, they charge.
Jan 30th, 2023
Brookfield Alderman’s Blast at Affordable Housing Ignites Controversy
A call for censure after he says such people could make city 'become West Allis.'
Jan 25th, 2023
PFAS Plume Found in Lake Michigan
'Forever chemicals' linked to many diseases found in Green Bay portion of lake.
Jan 4th, 2023
State’s Jails Charge High Fees For Prisoners’ Phone Calls
Calling home for the holidays cost more in Wisconsin than in two dozen other states.
Dec 26th, 2022
Immigrant Advocates Call For Compassion, Ending Title 42
Rally at City Hall as Biden asks Supreme Court to allow Title 42 to end.
Dec 21st, 2022
Gwen Moore Talks About Wealth Inequity
House committee she serves on produces 30-minute documentary, 'Grit & Grace,' exploring the problem.
Dec 20th, 2022
Problems, Staffing Shortages Still Plague Lincoln Hills
Despite efforts to improve conditions at state youth prison, not all is well.
Dec 10th, 2022
Narcan, Fentanyl Testing Strip Vending Machines Planned for Milwaukee
New strategy designed to address record overdose deaths.
Dec 1st, 2022
Frac Sand Mining Rebounds in Wisconsin
Industry in decline in state since 2020, but one company now sees soaring sales.
Nov 19th, 2022
Study Finds Gaps in County Drug Treatment Services
Fragmented system needs more resources, coordination. Wisconsin Policy Forum finds.
Nov 5th, 2022
Milwaukee DA Will Charge Elderly Man for Choking Black Man
Video captures 62-year-old with hand on throat of 24-year-old, in incident on South Side.
Nov 1st, 2022
The Growing Power of Latino Voters
Their turnout is increasing, particularly in Wisconsin, experts say.
Oct 30th, 2022
Milwaukee’s George Floyd Mural Vandalized
Vandalism to mural at Holton and North comes as officer involved in Floyd's death accepts plea deal. Damage quickly reversed.
Oct 27th, 2022
Dead Bird, Image of Mandela Barnes Left Outside Kenosha NAACP President’s Home
Literature darkened Barnes skin. Latest in series of racially tinged campaign incidents.
Oct 25th, 2022
What Do Milwaukee Voters Want?
Voces de la Frontera does voter education. BLOC goes door to door, finds people want 'housing and good jobs.'
Oct 25th, 2022
Community Groups Denounce Michels Corp.
Rally in Milwaukee blasts company for lack of diversity, discrimination, sexual harassment.
Oct 21st, 2022
Protestors Denounce Republican ‘Racist’ Ads
Protest held outside state party’s office in Bronzeville.
Sep 22nd, 2022
Should North Shore Suburbs Combine Police Forces?
The seven suburbs have already consolidated their fire departments and libraries.
Sep 20th, 2022
Lincoln Hills Faces Rising Population, Staff Shortage
State Department of Corrections looking to hire more staff at juvenile facility.
Sep 20th, 2022
Uneasy Start to School Year in Waukesha
National trend 'to attack school boards, LGBTQ rights and ban books is playing out.'
Sep 12th, 2022
Lawsuits Over Wauwatosa Curfew, Surveillance Move Forward
A federal judge will allow court to consider claims related to handling of 2020 protests.
Sep 1st, 2022
Kenosha Event Revisits 2020 Unrest
Questions, trauma linger. And just how quick was Evers' response?
Aug 30th, 2022
Tosa Police Release Details on Non-Fatal Shooting of Teen
Some parallels with past shootings by police.
Aug 24th, 2022
A Map of County’s Overdose Deaths
78% of deaths last year involved fentanyl. But use of new drug, Xylazine, rising.
Aug 24th, 2022
Federal Legislation Takes on Ghost Guns
The untraceable firearms have increasingly become a problem in Milwaukee and Wisconsin.
Aug 12th, 2022
Ballot Access A Concern In Milwaukee County Jail
Advocates, candidates for Sheriff question voting access in county jail.
Aug 8th, 2022
State DNR Adds New PFAS Rules
Regulating 'forever chemicals' in drinking water, surface water and fire fighting foam.
Aug 2nd, 2022
Alvin Cole Family Files Civil Rights Lawsuit Against Wauwatosa
Alvin Cole was killed in 2020 by former Wauwatosa police officer Joseph Mensah.
Jul 29th, 2022
Activists, County Officials Push Early Voting
Gathering at Midtown Center emphasizes issues on the August ballot. ’Voting is liberating.'
Jul 27th, 2022
Milwaukee’s Racial Disparity in Homeownership Growing
Report finds gap worse than in 10 peer cities and has worsened since Great Recession.
Jul 25th, 2022
Tosa Protest Tickets Dismissed
Nearly two dozen tickets issued to police brutality protesters dismissed on appeal.
Jul 21st, 2022
Wauwatosa Installs Huge Solar Panel Array
Panels on city hall complex now provide 55% of its energy.
Jul 20th, 2022
Sheriff Has a Busy Drone Unit
While county faces massive budget deficit, sheriff has 8-man unit doing surveillance of peaceful protests.
Jul 20th, 2022
How Milwaukee Police Do Cell Phone Surveillance
A log of 227 investigations reveals how MPD phone surveillance works.
Jul 19th, 2022
Jacob Blake Sr. Arrested At Akron Protest
Parent of man shot by Kenosha police officer in 2020 joins Ohio protest of shooting of 25-year-old Jayland Walker.
Jul 11th, 2022
State’s Coastal Communities Get Over $1.4M in Grants
Grants are intended to build sustainable coastal communities.
Jul 9th, 2022
State High Court Rules Accused Mayfair Mall Shooter, 17, Be Tried As Adult
4-3 Supreme Court decision overrules circuit court on teenage boy.
Jun 30th, 2022
State Supreme Court Rules in Milwaukee ShotSpotter Case
Court says gunfire detection met standard for reasonable suspicion in man's arrest.
Jun 24th, 2022
How Wisconsin’s Parole System Works
Critiques of an ‘ancient’ system shake up the parole commission and the governor’s race.
Jun 20th, 2022
LGBTQ+ Community Celebrates Pride Amidst Rising Political Attacks
Gov. Evers commits to fight 'Don't Say Gay' bills and other legislation at Pride event.
Jun 10th, 2022
Special Prosecutors Won’t File Charges in Jay Anderson Killing
Prosecutors said they could not prove beyond a reasonable doubt a crime was committed.
Jun 2nd, 2022
PFAS Shuts Down Wells In Marshfield, Adams
Drinking water contaminated. Waukesha court ruled DNR can’t regulate deadly pollutant.
Jun 1st, 2022
Problems Persist at Lincoln Hills, Copper Lake
Juvenile prisons have lower population but still badly understaffed, with safety concerns.
May 24th, 2022
Vos, Republicans Push Cities To Spend More On Police
Demanding that Milwaukee, Racine use APPA for more policing.
May 21st, 2022
Did Act 10 Fuel Prison Staffing Crisis?
Union officer says staff turnover began rising after collective bargaining rights were curtailed.
May 13th, 2022
State Prisons Face Staffing Crisis
State prisons have staff attrition rates as high as 40%.
May 12th, 2022
New State ACLU Leader Has Overcome Barriers
'Mexican-American, queer, multiple disabilities, and those identities taught me a lot.'
May 9th, 2022
National Campaign Challenges Gunfire Detection Tech
#CancelShotSpotter questions effectiveness of the technology, highlights public privacy concerns.
Apr 29th, 2022
State’s Black and Hispanic Renters Struggling
Report finds 47% of Black renters, 31% of Hispanic renters behind on payments.
Apr 19th, 2022
State Supreme Court Blocks Destruction of Rare Wetland
A sand fracking company wanted to fill a wetland in Monroe County.
Apr 15th, 2022
Judge Rules DNR Can’t Regulate PFAS
State agency lacks authority, Waukesha judge rules. Environmental advocates plan appeal.
Apr 13th, 2022
DNR To Manage Washington County Park
Resumes management of Lizard Mound County Park and Native American effigy mounds.
Apr 11th, 2022
Milwaukee Likely Won’t Be Devastated By Climate Change
A report by an insurance adjuster predicts the city will fare much better than other cities.
Apr 8th, 2022
Baldwin Blasts FDA Consultant For Pharma Ties
McKinsey & Company consulted for federal drug regulators and opioid manufacturers.
Apr 7th, 2022
Students Demand ‘Food Justice’ From MPS
Activist group Youth Empowered in the Struggle demands fresh cooked food in lunches.
Apr 2nd, 2022
Street Angels Get New Outreach Bus
Homeless outreach group lost their bus to a fire in January.
Mar 31st, 2022
City Plans Healing Spaces Initiative
More pathways, benches, herb and flower gardens, little free libraries and more.
Mar 28th, 2022
What’s Driving Milwaukee’s Homicide Rate
Pro-gun laws, red-lining and lead poisoning have a strong correlation with shootings.
Mar 24th, 2022
Did Tosa Police Withhold Phone Data?
Jay Anderson killed by officer and police seized his cell phones, which may have ‘critical evidence,’ attorney charges.
Mar 20th, 2022
61% Of State Supports Legal Cannabis
MU poll finds 75% of Democrats, 51% of Republicans back legalization.
Mar 6th, 2022
Beware of ‘Ukraine’ Charity Scams
State consumer officials warn of online and phone scams.
Mar 3rd, 2022
State Prisons Will Resume In-Person Visits
Beginning March 1, due to declining COVID-19 rate, state DOC announces.
Feb 28th, 2022
Voces Opposes Bill Allowing DACA Hires By Law Enforcement
Bill would allow law enforcement agencies, such as police departments, to hire DACA recipients.
Feb 27th, 2022
GOP Senators Pass Black History Month Resolution
Republican lawmakers dismissed input from Legislative Black Caucus.
Feb 24th, 2022
Natural Resources Board Opts For Weaker PFAS Limits
Department of Health Services recommended stricter limits than those passed by board.
Feb 24th, 2022
State Legislation Would Protect Gun Dealers From Lawsuits
Bill passes Assembly and Senate. It also protects manufacturers.
Feb 24th, 2022
A Court Battle Over Open Records
Court hears suit against former Natural Resources Board chairman, who won’t release any records.
Feb 22nd, 2022
Supreme Court Opposes Shackling Juveniles
Rule change would end shackling in state’s courts unless needed to prevent physical harm.
Feb 20th, 2022
Great Lakes Get $1 Billion for Clean Up
Funding from infrastructure law will help with remediation in Milwaukee Estuary.
Feb 18th, 2022
Republicans Push Wiretapping Bill
More aggressive intercepting of social media than federal law permits, ACLU charges.
Feb 15th, 2022
Will Lincoln Hills Youth Prison Finally Close?
And at what cost? Legislature debates the issue anew.
Feb 9th, 2022
Three Tosa Police Given Immunity in Jay Anderson Probe
"Unorthodox" decision in John Doe probe of Anderson’s killing by officer is questioned.
Feb 1st, 2022
Legislature Passes Raft of Law Enforcement Bills
14 bills increase funding, restrict local control; some directly target Milwaukee.
Jan 27th, 2022
Will Wauwatosa Elect First Black Council Members?
A changing city haunted by a past of racial discrimination.
Jan 18th, 2022
Bipartisan Support for Legalizing Fentanyl Testing Strips
Republicans and Democrats say bill will save lives.
Jan 17th, 2022
Bill Would Make Damaging Historical Property a Felony
Sponsors bring up damage to statues during 2020 Black Lives Matter protests.
Jan 9th, 2022
Fusion Center Raises Questions About Privacy
Milwaukee police use it to track protestors, emails show.
Dec 22nd, 2021
Legislators Withhold Chisholm’s Pay Raise
Every state worker except Milwaukee DA given a 2% raise in pay.
Dec 22nd, 2021
Court Upholds Protection of Rare Wetland
2017 DNR decision under Gov. Walker would have allowed Meteor Timber to fill in Monroe County wetland.
Dec 19th, 2021
Menomonee River Damaged By 400 Gallon Oil Spill
Komatsu Mining apologizes. Riverkeeper finds impact on birds, waterfowl.
Dec 14th, 2021
Lawyers Caution Against Changing Bail System
Waukesha parade killings spark calls for higher bail, more punitive pretrial detention.
Dec 5th, 2021
‘No Thanksgiving Without immigrants’
Advocates in Wisconsin call on congressional Democrats to deliver a pathway to citizenship.
Nov 25th, 2021
$5 Million Bail For Suspect in Waukesha Massacre
Six killed, more than 40 injured by man driving into Christmas Parade.
Nov 24th, 2021
Poverty Worsening For Some In State
70,000 households have children who went hungry because family couldn't afford food.
Nov 20th, 2021
Report Backs New State Law On Police Shootings
Prosecute them under civil rights law, argues former Republican US Attorney.
Nov 16th, 2021
Milwaukee Officers Circulate “2020 Riot” Coins?
Department investigating whether “inappropriate” coins celebrate police response to protests.
Nov 14th, 2021
DNR Will Fund Projects Reducing Diesel Emissions
$320,000 in grants from EPA will be awarded by the state's environmental regulator.
Nov 12th, 2021
Johnson Seeks ‘True Partnership’ With State Government
Council president, who could soon become acting mayor, says city’s future depends on this.
Nov 9th, 2021
City Attorney New Hire Worked For Anti-Muslim Group
Muslim advocacy group calls on Spencer to fire new assistant city attorney.
Nov 4th, 2021
Bill Requires More Access to Police Records
Brostoff wants more access for media and public to investigative records.
Nov 3rd, 2021
Democrats Pressured on Immigration Reform
Voces de la Frontera and allies picket Sen. Tammy Baldwin.
Oct 31st, 2021
Activists Oppose Johnson’s Push for More Police Near Schools
Common Council president concerned about reckless driving. LIT wants less policing of schools.
Oct 27th, 2021
What Can Police Do With Your Cell Phone Data?
'It may be unconstitutional, but really it’s fine.'
Oct 25th, 2021
Federal Funding Likely for PFAS Cleanup
The DNR is also reviewing new federal guidance on PFAS contamination.
Oct 18th, 2021
Bill Increases Criminal Penalties for Butane Hash Oil
Bill passed state Senate committee on a 5 to 1 vote.
Oct 16th, 2021
Bill Ends Criminal Penalties for Minors Engaging in Prostitution
Sen. Alberta Darling wants minors being trafficked to be treated as victims.
Oct 15th, 2021
Street Angels Say Milwaukee Homeless Population Rising
Outreach organization says the population is often undercounted by local officials.
Oct 11th, 2021
Proposal Expands Reasons To Delay Juvenile Trial
New legislation would allow continued detention, without trial, due to "unforeseen emergency."
Oct 7th, 2021
King Park Tent Community Shows City’s Housing Struggles
Despite some successes, housing remains a major challenge in Milwaukee.
Oct 5th, 2021
Wisconsin is Double the National Average for Child Lead Poisoning
Study shows connection between lead poisoning and racial and economic disparities.
Sep 30th, 2021
Activists Demand Eviction Protection For All
Milwaukee tenants union joins national call for rental assistance, eviction moratorium.
Sep 28th, 2021
Tosa Detective Who Labeled Mayor A ‘Higher Value Target’ Gets Promotion
Detective Joseph Lewandowski was promoted to sergeant.
Sep 26th, 2021
Kaul Supports Gun Bills Proposed by Democratic Legislators
Bills includes increased background checks and new court orders blocking individuals from gun possession.
Sep 24th, 2021
Rep. Sortwell Targets Social Media Censorship
Three bills combatting online censorship shoot for bipartisan support.
Sep 19th, 2021
Bill Would Prevent Police Job Hopping
Moore Omokunde notes research showing many fired officers get rehired elsewhere.
Sep 15th, 2021
Emails Show Local Law Enforcement Coordinating Protest Response
Email group also shared intelligence among local police departments and with FBI.
Sep 11th, 2021
Milwaukee Prison Activists Joining Nationwide Actions
"Shut' em Down" actions aim to shine light on conditions of prison system.
Sep 3rd, 2021
Endangered Snake Species Found in Construction Areas
In Ozaukee and Juneau counties. State DNR issued notices.
Aug 30th, 2021
Tosa PD Created Protestor ‘Target List’
The department shared the list with other Law Enforcement Agencies.
Aug 27th, 2021
Kenosha Unrest Used to Push New Rioting Laws
Republican bill creates new legal definition of riot, and a new felony charge for rioting.
Aug 26th, 2021
Wiretapping Bill Raises Concerns
Some legislators, privacy advocates concerned about use of pen register and trap/trace devices.
Aug 22nd, 2021
Anti-Panhandler Law Raises Controversy
Wauwatosa imposes fines of $25 to $500. Mayor, police department express misgivings.
Aug 17th, 2021
Private Firm Offered Security Training For Kenosha Businesses
A private security company pitched its services to Sheriff David Beth after Rittenhouse shootings.
Aug 9th, 2021
Sen. Carpenter Blasts DNR Over Wolf Hunt Plans
The Department of Natural Resources is planning a fall 2021 wolf harvest.
Aug 7th, 2021
Poor People’s Campaign Pickets Ron Johnson
Gathering at his downtown office demanding a $15 minimum wage, restoring Voting Rights Act.
Jul 28th, 2021
Baldwin Calls For Rejecting Purdue Pharmacy Bankruptcy Plan
Plan shields Sackler family, gives top company executives $5.4 million in bonuses.
Jul 27th, 2021
Lawmakers Request Civil Rights Probe of Tosa PD
Rep. Gwen Moore and Sen. Tammy Baldwin ask Justice Department for investigation.
Jul 23rd, 2021
Community Mourns Man Killed By Police
Criticism of police and solidarity and respect for Roberto Zielinski and his grieving family.
Jul 21st, 2021
Rare Green Violet Returns to State
The ‘holy grail' of rare plants in Wisconsin, thought extinct since 1950s, is rediscovered.
Jul 14th, 2021
City Task Force Considers Unarmed First Responders
Unarmed responders would field calls for non-violent crimes.
Jul 8th, 2021
Local Officials Hail Opioid Settlement Funds
County executives Crowley, Farrow say resources will help fight opioid epidemic.
Jul 7th, 2021
Tosa Police ‘Protestor List’ Includes Reporter
WE reporter Isiah Holmes on list, along with state Reps. David Bowen, Jonathan Brostoff and attorneys Kimberley Motley, Deja Vishny.
Jul 6th, 2021
Activists Say Police Reform Bills Not Enough
Elected officials, policing activists say task force bills are not substantive reforms.
Jul 2nd, 2021
COVID-19 Numbers at Zero in State Prisons
More than 96% of inmates agreed to vaccines, DOC statistics show.
Jun 30th, 2021
House Committee Will Look At Milwaukee’s Disparities
Rep. Moore will serve on Select Committee on Economic Disparity and Fairness in Growth.
Jun 28th, 2021
Voting Access Improving in Wisconsin Jails
A new report shows more jails have policies for voting in place.
Jun 25th, 2021
Legislators Clash On Police Funding
A heated debate as Republicans condemn Milwaukee and Milwaukee legislators defend the city.
Jun 24th, 2021
Milwaukee Overdose Map Shows Deadly Toll of Fentanyl
Despite rising deaths, a treatment clinic faces community opposition in West Allis.
Jun 21st, 2021
Can We Please Discuss Criminal Justice Reform?
Democratic legislators plead with Republicans, who cut off any attempt to discuss reforms.
Jun 15th, 2021
State Senate Debates Anti-Defund Police Bill
Bill cuts state aid to cities at same level as any reductions in law enforcement spending.
Jun 10th, 2021
Bowen Introduces Package of Policing Bills
The Milwaukee representative introduced a slate of legislation titled "Enough is Enough."
Jun 4th, 2021
Activists Reflect on a Year of Protest
Police reform advocates discuss victories and challenges that remain.
Jun 3rd, 2021
Tosa Announces Acting Chief of Police
Captain Luke Vetter promoted. 11% of officers left department in last year.
Jun 2nd, 2021
Tosa Mayor, Police Union At Odds
City officials at odds with union amid search for new police chief, calls for reforms.
May 29th, 2021
Bill Would End ‘Municipal Shuffle’ of Police Officers
Legislation by Rep. Moore Omokunde would decertify police officers trying to avoid firing, investigation.
May 25th, 2021
Legislative Committee Reviews Policing Bills
Wanggaard, Taylor push legislation on use-of-force policies, chokeholds and whistleblower protections.
May 20th, 2021
Closing Arguments Delivered On Jay Anderson’s Killing
Attorney says former Tosa police officer should be charged with second degree reckless homicide.
May 20th, 2021
Tosa Police Had Many ‘High Value Targets’
Including Mayor Dennis McBride, Rep. David Bowen, protest leaders, attorneys.
May 12th, 2021
Police Haven’t Ended Stop and Frisks
ACLU report finds Milwaukee police out of compliance with 2018 legal settlement.
May 4th, 2021
Bill Would Expand Law Enforcement Drone Use
Bill covers corrections facilities, but one sheriff said it would help protest surveillance.
Apr 30th, 2021
Cannabis Backers Switch Focus to Local Laws
‘Beating our head against the wall’ pushing Legislature to legalize pot.
Apr 26th, 2021
Dem Leaders Promote Climate Action
Gov. Evers, Lt. Gov. Barnes advocate for budget provisions, federal spending.
Apr 22nd, 2021
Report Finds Improvements in Youth Prisons
Lincoln Hills/Copper Lake School report finds 36% reduction in use of force.
Apr 21st, 2021
Democrats Call for Virtual Joint Finance Hearing
Pandemic created 'significant barriers’ for many citizens who couldn’t attend in-person hearings.
Apr 20th, 2021
Baldwin Challenges Opioid Companies ‘Abusive’ Tax Deductions
Letter from senators to IRS warns of deductions for legal expenses due to companies role in opioid epidemic.
Apr 18th, 2021
DA Explains Timing of Alvin Cole Decision
Chisholm says "It wasn't just Kenosha" factoring into timing of release.
Apr 15th, 2021
Did DA Delay Mensah Decision Due To Kenosha Unrest?
Wauwatosa Police indicated in emails that the Kenosha unrest in August delayed the decision in Alvin Cole shooting.
Apr 8th, 2021
Lt. Gov. Barnes Gets First Vaccine Shot
Vaccinated at North Division, not far from where first outbreak of COVID-19 occurred last year.
Apr 6th, 2021
How U.S. Marshals Came to Kenosha
Teams were shut down in Portland and sent to Kenosha protests, despite opposition of Evers, Kaul.
Apr 5th, 2021
DNR Grants Support Polluted Runoff Projects
New report details $7 million in 2020 projects.
Apr 1st, 2021
French Island Wells Show PFAS Pollution
State investigates, gives bottled water to residents of island off-shore from La Crosse.
Mar 30th, 2021
Inside the Milwaukee Police Fusion Center
Protesters have wondered what center is up to. The history and details of little-known unit.
Mar 30th, 2021
300 Days of Black Lives Matters Protests
March in Wauwatosa also marks second day of John Doe probe of Jay Anderson’s killing by police officer.
Mar 29th, 2021
The County Sheriff’s New Drone Unit
Will be used for highway traffic safety — and for protests.
Mar 24th, 2021
Acting Police Chief Offers Frank Views
"I’m a Black man first,” Norman tells panel. "I will not tolerate any explicit biases."
Mar 22nd, 2021
Milwaukee Police Helped Patrol Tosa Protests?
MPD denies it, but evidence suggests its police were covertly involved.
Mar 17th, 2021
How Milwaukee Police Monitor Cell Phones
Department spent $498,000 in 2019 on sophisticated equipment.
Mar 16th, 2021
“Qualified Immunity” At Issue in Killing By Officer
Sheriff’s deputy who shot Christopher Davis in 2016 claims qualified immunity in his defense.
Mar 15th, 2021
Was Jay Anderson’s Killing Properly Investigated?
New probe raises questions about his shooting by former Tosa cop Joseph Mensah.
Mar 10th, 2021
Local Activists Demand Action From Biden
Voces de la Frontera, BLOC, others push for COVID relief and criminal justice and immigration reforms.
Mar 5th, 2021
Racine Prison Quarantines Entire Housing Unit
130 staff members have tested positive for COVID-19.
Mar 3rd, 2021
The Ghost Arrests of Tosa Protesters
More than 40 arrests listed by Wauwatosa Police show no person arrested or taken into custody.
Mar 2nd, 2021
After Prison, What Next?
How to handle the formerly incarcerated. Milwaukee town hall tackles the issue.
Feb 25th, 2021
Evers Budget Addresses ‘Forever Chemicals’
Several initiatives to continue state’s efforts against PFAS contamination.
Feb 23rd, 2021
ACLU Calls for National Search for Tosa Police Chief
Police department 'must repair its relationship with many community members.’
Feb 23rd, 2021
Waukesha Faith Group Questions Mensah Hiring
Concerns over Waukesha Sheriff’s hiring of controversial Wauwatosa officer.
Feb 18th, 2021
200 Wolves Can Be Hunted
State Natural Resources Board relents, sets 200-kill quota and one-week hunting season.
Feb 16th, 2021
Should Waupun Prison Be Closed?
Two legislators say it may be time. Committee chair calls prison the "essence" of the city
Feb 14th, 2021
A New Era for Wauwatosa
Chief Weber retires after 30 years. City seeks new leader, faces troubling questions about Weber.
Feb 10th, 2021
City Activists Call for Rent Cancellation
Milwaukee’s S2 Real Estate has evicted 82 tenants since September.
Feb 8th, 2021
Myers Bill Ends No-Knock Search Warrants
Wisconsin was the first to legalize this and Milwaukee legislator wants state to be first to end it.
Feb 3rd, 2021
About Those Phones Taken By Tosa Police
Why did they confiscate cell phones of BLM protesters and what did they do with them?
Feb 1st, 2021
Is the Eviction Moratorium Enough?
Some tenants may not be protected, and rental assistance still needed to pay back-rent.
Jan 29th, 2021
ACLU Blasts Waukesha Sheriff on Mensah Hiring
Undermines 'trust with the people' they serve and puts them at 'extraordinary risk.'
Jan 27th, 2021
Barnes Takes the Lead on Climate Change
Lt. Governor headed state’s task force on climate policy and spoke to recent national conference.
Jan 25th, 2021
Local Activists Demand Biden End Immigrant Family Separation
Activist groups call for a reversal of the Trump administration's immigration policies.
Jan 21st, 2021
Wauwatosa Police Created ‘Protester List’
Some 40 on list, many sent multiple tickets, in 'attempt to silence’ critics of police, attorney charges.
Jan 20th, 2021
Black History and the Trump Uprising
UWM professor traces the roots of a mob storming the Capitol with Confederate flags.
Jan 18th, 2021
Tosa Mayor Named As ‘Target’ By Police
Such action will 'drive a wedge" between police and people they serve, McBride warns.
Jan 13th, 2021
Acevedo Family Pledges Push For Justice
They demand officer Michael Mattioli be fired, his alleged accomplices be charged in death of their son Joel.
Dec 29th, 2020
Winter Finches Here in Big Numbers
Poor tree seed and fruit crops across Canada forced birds south in search of food.
Dec 29th, 2020
Baldwin Questions U.S. Marshall’s Role in Tosa Protests
Baldwin said U.S. Attorney should explain if Operation Legend Resources were used.
Dec 19th, 2020
Coalition Forming Around State’s Climate Goals
Agriculture industry, environmental advocates and political leaders share goals of Climate Change Task Force report.
Dec 17th, 2020
Federal Officers Helped Patrol Tosa Protests
U.S. Attorney had promised federal Operation:Legend officers wouldn’t police protests.
Dec 15th, 2020
Hunger Strike Dramatizes Prisoners’ Demands
Inmates in Wisconsin’s prisons are “still fighting every day."
Dec 12th, 2020
Police Taking Cell Phone Data at Issue
They’ve done it with Blacks Lives Matter protesters and in murder case now before state Supreme Court.
Dec 8th, 2020
How Independent Are Police Shooting Investigations?
Emails raise questions about the rotating team of investigators known as the Milwaukee Area Investigative Team.
Dec 5th, 2020
Tosa Police Found ‘Significant Training Issues’ in Shooting by Mensah
Chisholm recommended body cameras after Jay Anderson’s shooting but department stalled.
Dec 1st, 2020
ACLU Blasts Tosa on Records Fees
Police considering high fees to discourage open record requests is a “red flag” of bad intentions.
Nov 28th, 2020
Recount an Insult to Minority Voters?
'Shameless' and part of a pattern of "blaming Black and brown voters," advocates say.
Nov 25th, 2020
Tosa Police Use High Fees to Combat Open Records?
Email outlining policy 'a shocking admission of bad faith,' expert says.
Nov 24th, 2020
Mensah Settlement Leaves Lawyers, Officials Squabbling
Attorneys arguing with city; police chief at odds with Common Council.
Nov 23rd, 2020
DNR Seeks Public Input on Rare Lizards
Telecommunications project in Waushara County may kill some of rare legless lizards.
Nov 17th, 2020
Man Charged With Buying Gun for Rittenhouse
Dominick Black bought rifle used in Kenosha shootings because Rittenhouse was underage.
Nov 11th, 2020
Cannabis Reform Gets Bipartisan Support
Appleton reduces fines for possession. Two Republican legislators are leading voices for change.
Nov 8th, 2020
Rittenhouse Bond Set at $2 Million
17-year-old accused of shooting three, killing two. He’s a flight risk, Kenosha ADA says.
Nov 3rd, 2020
Police Use of Cell Phone Data At Issue
The new privacy frontier? State Supreme Court asked to rule on the issue.
Oct 26th, 2020
‘Does My Vote Matter?’
Mixed emotions as city’s minority and low-income voters head to the polls.
Oct 26th, 2020
A Stormy Week in Wauwatosa
Peaceful protest follows ugly police reaction with injuries to journalist and Alvin Cole’s mother.
Oct 18th, 2020
Tosa Police Arrest Cole Family At Protest
Tracy Cole, Alvin Cole's mother, was sent to the hospital for injuries from her arrest.
Oct 9th, 2020
Investigator Recommends Mensah’s Termination
Officer who shot 17-year-old Alvin Cole “violated several policies,” Police & Fire Commission finds.
Oct 7th, 2020
Funeral Home Shooting Part of Epidemic of Gun Violence
Milwaukee Health Department notes a 100% increase in homicides this year.
Oct 2nd, 2020
Protest Shuts Down I-94 Freeway
Protests continued in city last week after Breonna Taylor decision.
Sep 28th, 2020
Activists Criticize Tosa PD’s Protest Tactics
Protesters detail the use of spike strips, $1,300 tickets and racial profiling.
Sep 19th, 2020
Tosa Police Union Head Assails Police Critics
Union leaders wants Tosa's social justice committee disbanded.
Sep 17th, 2020
Tosa Police Charge $5,400 for Public Records
Money must be prepaid, records will take 12 weeks to process, lawyer for families of three people killed by police officer is told.
Sep 15th, 2020
Protesters Describe Detention In Kenosha
Held as long as 20 hours by police, FBI. Reports of Portland-style unmarked cars patrolling city.
Sep 14th, 2020
Tosa PD Won’t Investigate Racist Mailings
'Whites for Wauwatosa' letter does not rise to level of police action, PD says.
Sep 4th, 2020
Tosa Police Arrest Peaceful Protester
30-minute video captures standoff between protesters and police.
Aug 19th, 2020
Tosa Police Issue Gets More Heated
Other suburb’s police massing against protesters. Sensenbrenner, police chief, talk radio condemn protests.
Aug 17th, 2020
The Power of Poor People’s Votes
Just a small increase in percent of low-income people who vote could transform elections in state and nation, report finds.
Aug 16th, 2020
Suburb’s Equity Leader Seeks ‘Good Trouble’
Wauwatosa Equity and Inclusion Commission chair Sean Lowe fights for change in the city.
Aug 9th, 2020
Evictions Rising, Activists Call For Moratorium
Pandemic is worsening the crisis of evictions in Milwaukee.
Aug 6th, 2020
Town Hall Discusses Urgency of Climate Crisis
The virtual town hall was held by Lt. Gov. Barnes and Sen. Baldwin.
Aug 1st, 2020
New Opioid “Iso” Hitting Milwaukee
County has documented seven overdoses this year from powerful synthetic drug Isotonitazene.
Jul 29th, 2020
State DOJ Rejects Records Request on Police
What actions are police in Milwaukee, other cities taking against protesters? Open records request rejected.
Jul 22nd, 2020
Tosa Alderwoman Calls for Firing Officer
First official in Wauwatosa to support firing of Joseph Mensah, who was involved in three total shootings.
Jul 13th, 2020
Tosa PD Protesters Issue List of Demands
Despite increasing pressure from police, protesters in Tosa continue to seek justice.
Jul 10th, 2020
Maps Tell Story of City’s Overdose Crisis
2020 on pace to shatter record for drug overdoses. High rate of deaths on South Side.
Jul 10th, 2020
Activists Ratchet Up Pressure on Tosa PD
Jay-Z's Roc Nation calls for Mensah's firing, Tosa Police arrest protesters.
Jul 9th, 2020
Tosa PD Getting New Body Cameras
Under pressure from activists, Wauwatosa Common Council approves new body cameras for department.
Jul 2nd, 2020
Barnes Holds First Climate Change Conversation
The Lt. Gov. said citizens "called on elected officials to act."
Jun 26th, 2020
Families Honor Men Killed by Tosa Officer
On the anniversary of Jay Anderson, Jr.'s killing, a rally was held in Madison Park.
Jun 25th, 2020
Nooses Hung From Riverside Park Tree
With laminated photos of Blacks killed by cops. Sheriff’s Office is investigating.
Jun 24th, 2020
City’s Protesters Under Police Surveillance?
Cops using Stingrays to intercept marchers’ cell phones? Ald. Kovac says city should “investigate the investigators.”
Jun 23rd, 2020
Barnes Calls on Wisconsin to Tackle Climate Change
The Lt. Gov. says, "we cannot afford to let the gravity of the crisis paralyze us."
Jun 20th, 2020
Protesters Demand Firing of Tosa Police Officer
The officer has killed three young men since 2015.
Jun 19th, 2020
11 Days of National Guard Operations
How did they operate in the city? How was that Blackhawk helicopter used?
Jun 17th, 2020
‘The Three’ Protest Targets Wauwatosa Cop
Grieving families say one Tosa officer involved in three fatal shooting in five years.
Jun 9th, 2020
State, City Elected Officials Call for Police Reform
Activists, Alders, lawmakers and the governor are calling for policy changes.
Jun 5th, 2020
Many Milwaukee Leaders Support Protests
Community leaders, politicians release statements, Common Council calls for Milwaukee Police reforms.
Jun 2nd, 2020
National Guard COVID-19 Funding at Stake
Trump considering cuts, officials in Wisconsin, other states urge him to continue funding.
May 24th, 2020
Governor’s Climate Change Task Force Meets
Third meeting on zoom. Policy recommendations expected by October 31.
May 24th, 2020
How State Reopening is Affecting PFAS Testing
DNR now navigating various local orders.
May 23rd, 2020
Baldwin Requests Funding to Study Opioid Crisis
Sen. Tammy Baldwin is behind a push for better data collection and monitoring of opioid use
May 22nd, 2020
State COVID Restrictions Continue for Prisons
Social distancing guidelines maintained for all state’s correctional institutions.
May 18th, 2020
City Activists Decry Supreme Court Ruling
Getting rid of the Safer-At-Home Order is a "recipe for disaster," they say.
May 15th, 2020
State’s Spring Wildfire Season Upon Us
“99% of wildfires are caused by humans,” says DNR expert.
May 12th, 2020
PFAS, Other Pollutants Found In Rivers
Testing of areas of concern in harbor area, rivers found higher pollution upstream from harbor.
May 11th, 2020
Seeking COVID Compassion
Advocates seek clemency, reduction of state’s incarcerated population.
May 10th, 2020
Legislative Black Caucus Addresses Pandemic
State’s black communities lack healthcare, economic relief and accurate information.
May 4th, 2020
Low-income Communities are Hard Hit by COVID-19
Local African-American leaders lament the effect of COVID-19 on their communities.
Apr 30th, 2020
Johnson Controls Wants Pause in PFAS Testing
DNR is reviewing a request from the company, which wants to stop PFAS efforts during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Apr 26th, 2020
Activists Plead for Release of Prisoners
Worry over spread of COVID-19 in state’s prisons, lives of most vulnerable inmates.
Apr 25th, 2020
A Day to Consider Legalizing Pot
It can actually be a gateway to prosperity and increased opportunity, says state representative.
Apr 20th, 2020
Will “Safer at Home” Be Policed Fairly?
Some areas most impacted by COVID-19 have also been victims of excessive policing.
Apr 14th, 2020
ACLU Suit Calls for Elderly Inmates Release
State ACLU leader calls state prisons a “ticking time bomb” on COVID-19 for elderly and vulnerable.
Apr 11th, 2020
Opioid Treatment Facility Sees Uptick During Pandemic
The epidemic has not slowed down, and neither has treatment.
Apr 9th, 2020
Pandemic Suppresses the Black Vote
Biggest impact of poll closures, long lines, on Milwaukee’s African American community.
Apr 8th, 2020
Wisconsin’s Incarcerated are in Danger
Activists urge action to protect incarcerated individuals during this pandemic.
Apr 2nd, 2020
Pandemic Forces State Prisons to Adapt
Evers halts admissions, DOC implements measures to minimize the risk.
Mar 23rd, 2020
Do Probation Agents Need Protection?
Legislators debate bill adding penalties, possible jail time, if probation agents or their families threatened.
Mar 11th, 2020
Do Local Elections Avoid Certain Voters?
Emphasis on frequent voters can mean poorer and minority areas are avoided.
Mar 4th, 2020
Coronavirus Risk Remains Low in State
Just one confirmed case in Dane County and person has recovered.
Mar 3rd, 2020
Board Seeks Unified Approach to Services
County approves One Milwaukee Task Force, aims to unify county, city and MPS services for high need neighborhoods.
Mar 2nd, 2020
Molson Coors Shooting Restarts Gun Debate
Democrat legislators speak up about gun safety reforms.
Mar 1st, 2020
Two Opposite Visions of Criminal Justice
State Reps. Evan Goyke and Joe Sanfellipo espouse different visions for law enforcement in Wisconsin.
Feb 28th, 2020
Federal Policing Money Flowing to City
Relentless Pursuit grant, Tougher on Crime grant, DNC funding lead the list.
Feb 25th, 2020
Body Cam Bill Passes State Legislature
Bill creates uniform rules for use of body cameras throughout the state.
Feb 21st, 2020
Bipartisan Water Quality Bills Pass
Though, they do not make it through the sharply divide legislature without some disagreement.
Feb 20th, 2020
Controversial “Tougher on Crime” Bills Pass
Two parties split over the future of criminal justice. Democrats assail GOP for "fear mongering" legislation.
Feb 13th, 2020
GOP Adds More “Tougher On Crime” Legislation
New bills increase penalties for offenses like car theft and reckless driving.
Feb 7th, 2020
Voces de La Frontera Mobilizing Voters
Effort for 2020 builds on 2016, when it recruited 5,600 Latinx voters, 67% of them new voters.
Feb 4th, 2020
GOP Lawmakers Push “Tougher on Crime” Legislation
Package of bills draws major criticism and concern from committee, citizens.
Jan 31st, 2020
Hundreds Rally for Criminal Justice Reform
ACLU organized lobbying day calls for an end to policies that contribute to mass incarceration.
Jan 30th, 2020
Proposal Targets “Forever Plastics”
Proposal by Supervisors Dimitrijevic and Nicholson bans use of non-biodegradable plastics in county facilities.
Jan 29th, 2020
Evers Releases Anti-Vaping Agenda
Package of politics targets youth vaping, a “serious public health epidemic.”
Jan 27th, 2020
Bill Addresses “Race Out of Place” Police Stops
Rep. Stubbs suffered such racial profiling when campaigning in mostly white neighborhood.
Jan 20th, 2020
Trump Visit Draws Protests Downtown
Protests and police maneuvers may be a taste of DNC 2020.
Jan 16th, 2020
GOP Legislators Push “Tougher on Crime” Bills
Stiffer penalties on variety of crimes even as Evers moves to reduce prison population.
Jan 14th, 2020
‘Relentless Pursuit’ Worries Immigration Activists
Will new federal enforcement effort, working with Milwaukee Police, involve ICE agents?
Jan 7th, 2020
DNR Revising Permits to Protect Species
Would affect construction projects nearby or within habitats of rare or threatened species.
Jan 3rd, 2020
Back From Madrid, Barnes Pushes Climate Policy
Lt. Governor attended international climate conference, envisions state as a climate policy leader.
Dec 30th, 2019
Federal Crime Effort Includes Milwaukee
One of 7 cities picked for new anti-crime program, Operation: Relentless Pursuit.
Dec 26th, 2019
North-Side Man Dies, Possible Hypothermia
Died last week, We Energies says his heating equipment may not have been working.
Dec 24th, 2019
Man Arrested By ICE Reunited With Family
José Alejandro de la Cruz-Espinoza, 38, has lived in U.S. for decades.
Dec 13th, 2019
Baldwin Bill Addresses Veterans’ Health
Help for veterans hurt by over-prescription of medications, high suicide rate.
Dec 12th, 2019
Officials Urge Warming Centers to Open
Serve homeless whenever temperatures below freezing, say Supervisors Shea and Taylor.
Dec 11th, 2019
Police Investigating Multiple School Threats
Shooting, stabbing, and threats of violence at five different area schools in two days.
Dec 5th, 2019
Behold the Democratic Green Team
“Forward on Climate” package includes bills on green banks, weatherizing schools.
Dec 4th, 2019
School Shootings Raise Safety Concerns
Evers and Kaul lament problem. “Kids shouldn’t fear for their life at school.”
Dec 3rd, 2019
New Charges Against Activist Vaun Mayes
Community organizer says he's being targeted as a "Black Identity Extremist.”
Nov 26th, 2019
Evers Commits to Paris Climate Accords
Lt. Gov. Barnes joins a call with experts and city leaders ahead of UN COP25.
Nov 25th, 2019
Two Efforts Target Climate Change
State and county task forces are separate but overlapping efforts responding to crisis.
Nov 19th, 2019
Downtown Rally for DACA, Dreamers
Bus loads of activists at Federal Building urged U.S. Supreme Court to rule in favor of immigrants.
Nov 13th, 2019
Proposal Lets County Workers Staff the Polls
Board supports employees getting paid time off to work at polling sites.
Nov 12th, 2019
State Collects 30 Tons of Unused Drugs
Attorney General Josh Kaul, 277 police agencies in state worked on 2019 Drug Take Back Day.
Nov 7th, 2019
Baldwin Pushes for Action on Lead Poisoning
Urges Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services to improve lead screening data.
Oct 30th, 2019
State Board Okays Rules on PFAS Pollution
Wisconsin Natural Resources Board will create stricter rule making process for PFAS levels in water.
Oct 24th, 2019
Community Outpouring Over City Budget
Dozens of residents object to nearly half of budget paying for police.
Oct 14th, 2019
Rev. Barber’s Campaign Comes to Town
Founder of the Moral Mondays movement assails “racialized poverty”, calls for voting turnout.
Oct 14th, 2019
FDA Testing Vapes for Link to Lung Damage
The Wisconsin DHS is tracking 69 possible cases of vaping-related lung disease.
Oct 8th, 2019
Immigration Activists Question MPD Policy Towards ICE
Fire and Police Commission delays vote on policy a third time, meanwhile activists want answers.
Oct 7th, 2019
Bipartisan Bill Would Legalize Medical Marijuana
But Senate Majority Leader Scott Fitzgerald strongly opposes the bill.
Oct 3rd, 2019
DNR to Back Pro-Climate Policies
Unlike the previous administration, Evers Administration pledges to address climate change.
Oct 1st, 2019
County Board Backs Milwaukee Voting Rights Bill
Resolution calls for restoring voting rights to people on probation and parole.
Sep 27th, 2019
Milwaukee Experiencing Unprecedented Number of Drug Overdoses
Approximately one drug overdose every 14 hours.
Sep 25th, 2019
“Moving Milwaukee Forward” Bill Introduced
Goyke, Johnson push bill allowing local voters to approve 1% county sales tax.
Sep 20th, 2019
Supervisors Push Ex-Offender Voting Rights
Resolution calls for restoring the voting rights of people on parole or probation.
Sep 17th, 2019
Committee Approves Loans for Lead Laterals
$550,000 loan program for any resident, regardless of income, to replace lead laterals.
Sep 10th, 2019
Waukesha Has a Deal With ICE
Only sheriff’s department in state that created agreement with federal immigration authorities.
Sep 6th, 2019
Opioid Settlement Could Aid County
Milwaukee suit seeks settlement to repay county’s costs from opioid crisis, can cite Purdue Pharma case.
Sep 4th, 2019
Fun and Politics at LaborFest
Labor unions, socialists, fun seekers at annual Labor Day festival.
Sep 3rd, 2019
Inside State’s First 24/7 Opioid Treatment Center
Community Medical Services in West Allis saves lives, confronts stigma.
Aug 29th, 2019
Tracking the County’s Drug Deaths in 2018
384 fatal overdoses, mostly from heroin and cocaine, hitting hardest in several city zip codes.
Aug 22nd, 2019
State Group Helps Sue Trump on Coal
Clean Wisconsin and 9 other environmental groups argue Trump Administration violates Clean Air Act.
Aug 19th, 2019
Opioid Addiction Can Be Beaten, Experts Say
Experts and activists meet in Bay View to discuss city’s opioid, heroin, cocaine crisis.
Aug 15th, 2019
State Officials Concerned About Spy Balloons
Pentagon surveillance of Wisconsin, other midwestern states, raises issues for Kaul, Sargent.
Aug 13th, 2019
Pentagon Spy Balloons Watching State
Program tested in six midwestern states, may provide “perfect surveillance”.
Aug 12th, 2019
Prescription Drugs Polluting Drinking Water?
Researchers see problem from unused drugs flushed into Lake Michigan.
Aug 3rd, 2019
Sanctuary Rally Announces Pro-Immigrant Bills
“These people are us!” Proposed state laws provide more protection for immigrants.
Aug 1st, 2019
Why the Weekend of Fatal Overdoses?
14 drug overdose deaths in Milwaukee County. Bad batch of drugs suspected.
Jul 31st, 2019
Legislators Urge New Strategy on Budget
Stung by Republican cuts in funds to Milwaukee, city-based legislators search for new approach.
Jul 28th, 2019
Wisconsin Is Awash in Opioids
Federal data shows massive over-prescription, 1.2 billion pain pills over six years.
Jul 28th, 2019
Clean Drinking Water Effort Falls Short
$40 million state funding to replace lead laterals cut from budget by Republicans.
Jul 24th, 2019
Local Anti-War Protestors Keep Pushing
America has been at war since 2001. Local activists continue their call for peace.
Jun 18th, 2019
“Close MSDF!” Protestors Declare
Those who suffered inside the county’s secure detention facility, call for its closing.
Apr 26th, 2019
The Ugly Record of Armor Health
Why the county had to replace the company handling the county jail.
Mar 26th, 2019
The Rise of Victory Gardens
Founded in 2008, it keeps expanding city gardens and healthy food supplies.
Mar 15th, 2019
Questions Surround Vaun Mayes’ Arrest
Charged with plot to firebomb police, Mayes is a dedicated community worker, supporters say.
Feb 6th, 2019
Waukesha County Sued for Racial Profiling
Common Ground seeks apology for treatment of two black pastors, and reviewing actions by other suburbs.
Jan 10th, 2019
Close Milwaukee Secure Detention Facility?
Both activists and newly elected Gov. Evers agree on this. Its problems are many.
Nov 21st, 2018
ACLU Justice Tour Targets Racism
Mass incarceration and police stop-and-frisk program discussed at weekend event.
Oct 15th, 2018
52 Legislative Candidates Support Legal Pot
But most candidates declined to answer survey by NORML.
Oct 11th, 2018
How Tobacco Companies Target Minorities
UWM study shows stores in black and Latino neighborhoods target children.
Oct 8th, 2018
The House Where Addicts Die
Five overdose deaths in eight months at a West Side transitional living center.
Apr 18th, 2018
Let Us All Praise and Use Hemp
Thousands attend city’s first hemp convention at -- really? -- Serb Hall.
Mar 12th, 2018
Your New Recreation Destination
East North Ave. may become THE place for recreational bars and cafes.
Mar 9th, 2018
Tracking Opioid Deaths by ZIP Code
The crisis is widespread buts hits hardest in 53206 and 53215 ZIP codes.
Mar 1st, 2018
The Harvard of Pimp Schools
How human trafficking became entrenched in Milwaukee, and what’s being done about it.
Feb 28th, 2018
New Pie Place For Bay View
SmallPie is brainchild of Honeypie's owner. Yes, it will offer pies.
Feb 13th, 2018
Rising From the Ashes of Growing Power
New cafe, Rise & Grind, opens in old location of Growing Power cafe.
Feb 12th, 2018
Credit Union Targets Riverwest, Harambee
Serving 53212 zip code, credit union elects board, seeks state approval.
Dec 29th, 2017
New Campaign Targeting Child Poverty Launched
Statewide campaign includes many faith-based groups convinced child poverty is a “moral failing.”
Dec 20th, 2017
Anti-Marijuana Campaign Is Misguided
County substance abuse campaign concentrates all its spending on “No need for weed.”
Dec 8th, 2017
BBC Report on City Is Real
For those who know city's neighborhoods, the documentary echoes our experience.
Nov 9th, 2017
The Death of Jermaine Claybrooks
Police killed suspected drug dealer, but his family and lawyer say slaying unjustified.
Oct 15th, 2017
How Ryan Sanders Was Railroaded
He spent eight months in jail before the DA withdrew a charge of conspiracy to commit homicide.
Oct 5th, 2017
The Online Legacy of Sheriff Clarke
His use of government social media set an ugly precedent which must be rejected.
Sep 14th, 2017
The Heroin and Opioid Crisis Is Real
Many are affected in Milwaukee. So what are government leaders doing about it?
Aug 28th, 2017
Unlawful Tactics Used Against Immigrants?
Federal investigators use surveillance technology on anyone living in a known gang area.
Aug 13th, 2017
