Committee approves task force to reduce carjackings in city and Milwaukee County

MILWAUKEE  (CBS 58) -- A collaborative effort to reduce carjackings in Milwaukee and Milwaukee County is moving forward. 

The Public Health and Safety Committee approved a plan Friday to create a task force to help stop carjackings. 

The City-County Carjacking and Reckless Driving Task Force would be compromised of city leaders and community members including young people. 

The task force would work with agencies like the District Attorney's Office, the Milwaukee Police Department, and the Milwaukee County Sheriff's Office. The goal is to find solutions to curb the problem in the city. On Thursday, MPD announced carjackings were down 7% in 2018. Alderman Mike Murphy, who is co-sponsoring the resolution, says although the problem has gotten better, more needs to be done and this task force could help. 

"We want to change behaviors of individuals who are making these bad decisions so that can be accomplished many different ways. One, certainly law enforcement but I think that's not the only way. I think through education is another component that is important whether it involves more direct outreach through PSAs or working with the Milwaukee Public Schools, our charter school systems," said Ald. Mike Murphy - 10th District. 

The resolution will go to the full Common Council for a vote.