"Today We Declare War" New Task Force Announced for Gun Violence

By: Justin Thompson-Gee Facebook | Twitter

Posted: Jul 20, 2015 7:30 PM CDT | Updated: Jul 21, 2015 9:37 AM CDT

At a City Hall press conference Mayor Tom Barrett, D.A. John Chisholm, Police Chief Ed Flynn, U.S. Attorney James Santelle, and Attorney General Brad Schimel announced the formation of a new task force to address gun violence in Milwaukee.

\"It's important for all of us to work together to reduce violence,\" said Mayor Barrett.

The announcement follows a meeting in April where the A.G. Schimel agreed to work with the Milwaukee County District Attorney's Office to commit police resources and have the unit aggressively prosecute those arrested for for gun crimes.

The mayor also announced that there will be a court committed to having these firearms cases heard.

\"I want to thank the A.G. for his cooperation,\" said Barrett before calling Schimel to the podium.

\"Today we declare war on those who commit crimes with guns in Milwaukee,\" said Schimel who also expressed sympathies to the victims of violence and their families.

\"Our hearts go out to the victims and families. It's with them in mind that we shift our resources to fight gun crime. Anyone who uses a gun to commit violence we will find you arrest and hold you accountable in the courts.\"

Schimel said too many families have lost too much already in Milwaukee. He said they deserved protection and safety.

\"Law enforcement officers and prosecutors assigned to gun crime task force will expedite cases.\" promised Schimel. \"We will work to keep these individuals in custody and request speedy trials.\"

MPD will work Department of Corrections to bring suspects into custody if they violate supervision.

Schimel directly addressed residents plagued by violence.

\"We have their back. We will work with them.\"

Milwaukee Co. D.A. John Chisholm likened this new initiative with \"Operation Cease Fire\" 15 years ago.

\"We came together at the time and promised a focus on firearm offenders. We would send a strong message that gun violence would not be tolerated. It was successful and I totally expect this to be successful.\"