Milwaukee Police Rarely Use Force, Study Finds

According to a study released this week, Milwaukee police use force less often than many people might think. The Journal Sentinel places that rate at just 1.07% of arrests despite, what the paper states, are misconceptions and myths among the public.

The report blames the media and public hype for “over exaggerating” a problem that doesn’t really exist. The findings were based on police reports that must be filed any time force is used.

Some of the findings include:

• 34% of use of force incidences in the city occurred in District 7
• 459 use of force incidences occurred in 2009
• 20% of all Milwaukee police officers were involved in a use of force that year
• 7 people died last year during incidences involving police use of force

While there’s no doubt that the media often depicts crime as being far more frequent and far more frightening than it truly is, people must remember that anytime a state sanctioned force, like the police, uses force, it should be documented and shared with the public–both for accountability sake and to offer a peace of mind that the officer’s #1 goal is protecting the public, not putting it in harm’s way.

Anytime you are under arrest and you resist or do not follow directions exactly how they are told to you, you run the risk of having force used on you. While this isn’t appropriate in all circumstances, it is necessary in some.

Your rights should be at the forefront of the criminal justice system but oftentimes it seems as if they are an afterthought. As your defense attorney, when you are facing criminal charges, it is my job to ensure your rights are protected at every stage of the game.

From the moment you are patted down or your car searched, your Constitutional rights cannot be infringed upon by the police without reason. If you are facing charges now and need assistance with your case, contact me today.

Whether you are up against drug charges, theft, or an assault—I can help.