Milwaukee Police Chief Morales says crime has decreased in 2019

By: CBS 58 Newsroom

Posted: Jul 3, 2019 4:30 PM CDT

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- Despite a surge of shooting incidents this week, the city of Milwaukee has seen a decrease in crime overall in 2019.

The new report from the Milwaukee Police Department shows a 20% decrease in what they call "Part 1" crime, some of the most serious offenses.

Homicides are down 15% compared to last year at this time, rape is down 12%, and there's been a 33% drop in motor vehicle theft.

Chief Alfonso Morales says one factor is MPD's policy on police chases.

"Our traffic plan that involves pursuing those individuals that are out there committing crimes has had an effect," Morales said. "Yes, it comes with a price. But I think that we should not forget all the lives that were lost when we weren't doing our job."

The chief thanked Milwaukeeans for their help in reducing these crime numbers.

In a press release, Morales also said, "Although crime has decreased substantially compared to this time last year, we will not ignore the surge of gun-related violence that occurred in the past week. We are devoted to making Milwaukee a safer place to live, work and raise a family for everyone."