Operation Summer Guardian: MPD launches new initiative to reduce response times to shootings

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- This summer, the Milwaukee Police Department is trying to reduce response times to shootings. The initiative, called "Operation Summer Guardian," will use technology to pinpoint gunfire in eight hotspot neighborhoods. 

Milwaukee police will use technology called ShotSpotter to pinpoint where shootings are happening. The department has had the technology for years, but now Milwaukee Police Chief Jeffrey Norman says they'll be centralizing their approach by developing officers to hotspot neighborhoods before the guns are even fired. 

"We are going to be proactive," Chief Norman said. "This is a proactive strategy. This is a proactive operation." 

Operation Summer Guardian is taking off in time for the 4th of July weekend. Eight Milwaukee neighborhoods can expect to see increased police and engagement over the summer. These neighborhoods account for 12% of shootings and 10% of homicides in the city, according to police. 

The goal is to have highly-trained officers around the corner when an incident happens, instead of another call. 

"Hopefully, by having a dedicated group of people to do this rapid response, we'll have more success in intercepting those people who are responsible for pulling triggers in our residential areas," said Milwaukee Police Department Assistant Chief Paul Formolo. 

Norman says this program will end in September. Over the summer, MPD will monitor how effective the operation is.