Milwaukee Police Department Adopts SOP Modification Prohibiting Facial Coverings – A Victory for Increased Transparency Under Council’s ICE Out Framework

Members of the Milwaukee Common Council announced today that the Milwaukee Police Department will adopt an addition to its Uniform Standard Operating Procedure that explicitly prohibits the use of facial coverings for the purpose of concealing identity, marking a major transparency and accountability victory aligned with the Council’s ICE Out public safety plan.

Alderperson JoCasta Zamarripa, who authored the SOP modification motion prohibiting MPD officers from concealing their identities by utilizing facial masks, emphasized that the policy reflects direct constituent demands. “We met with the Police Chief, delivered the message of what our constituents were demanding, and he acted. This is about responsiveness, accountability, and trust,” she said.

Common Council President José G. Pérez noted the broader national context. “This is a core issue at the center of the federal shutdown right now, and without federal action, we are taking steps locally to increase transparency and accountability.”

Alderman Alex Brower added, “This SOP change is a fantastic first step, and to align with this momentum, there will be a forthcoming ordinance before the Council to codify these standards citywide, reinforcing the prohibition on facial coverings by any law enforcement operating in Milwaukee.”

Alderwoman Marina Dimitrijevic underscored the Council’s commitment to community safety and civil rights. “There will be no secret police in our city, and we are setting high standards for safety for all. Our residents deserve to know who is working in their neighborhoods as we work to make our city the most welcoming city we can.”

The Council stated that the SOP modification strengthens public trust, further ensures officer identification, and positions Milwaukee as a national model for transparent, accountable policing under the ICE Out framework.

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.