City of Milwaukee Health Department Investigating Suspected Tattoo Related-Infections

MILWAUKEE, WI — The City of Milwaukee Health Department (MHD) is investigating several suspected cases of nontuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) infections following tattoo procedures performed by an unlicensed tattoo operation operating under the name Davinci Way Ink.

On May 14, MHD received a report from a medical provider of a suspected tattoo-related mycobacterial infection in a minor. Additional reports followed on May 20 and June 2. All cases involved minors who had received tattoos through unlicensed services.

MHD and the Milwaukee Police Department cited Jonathan Beasley on May 28 for tattooing minors and operating without a license. The investigation has connected Beasley to at least two locations believed to be associated with Davinci Way Ink:

• 6115 N. Teutonia Ave
• 5019 W. North Ave

The Health Department continues to work with families and medical providers to gather more information.

What is Mycobacterium?

Nontuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) are environmental bacteria found in water and soil. These bacteria can cause skin and soft tissue infections when introduced under the skin during procedures like tattooing, particularly when sterile techniques are not followed. In this case, the infection may be linked to the use of unsterile tap water to dilute black ink.

Symptoms to Watch For

Individuals who received tattoos from Davinci Way Ink within the past 2–3 months should monitor the tattoo site for:

• Persistent redness, swelling, or warmth
• Pain, bumps, or nodules under the skin
• Pus or drainage
• Delayed healing lasting more than 2–3 weeks

Anyone experiencing these symptoms should seek prompt medical evaluation and inform their provider about their recent tattoo.

Protect Yourself: Use Licensed Tattoo Professionals

The City of Milwaukee Health Department urges the public to seek tattoo and body art services only from licensed practitioners. Licensed professionals should:

• Display a valid facility license and a state-issued practitioner license
• Verify age and obtain consent forms
• Follow proper sanitation and sterilization procedures
• Provide detailed aftercare instructions

To report unsafe, unsanitary, or unlicensed tattoo activity, contact MHD at (414) 286-3674.

Additional guidance is available on the MHD website at milwaukee.gov/bodyart.

For Medical Providers

Although tattoo-related infections are not typically reportable to public health, MHD encourages medical providers to:

• Notify MHD of suspected tattoo-related infections, especially in minors
• Ask patients about recent tattoos and the location of service
• Reinforce safe tattooing practices with patients as needed

NOTE: This press release was submitted to Urban Milwaukee and was not written by an Urban Milwaukee writer. While it is believed to be reliable, Urban Milwaukee does not guarantee its accuracy or completeness.