“The days of Lone Ranger policing are long past…”
“The days of Lone Ranger policing are long past. No police department can be effective for long without viable and active community and government partners. Our officers have forged productive collaborations with numerous community-based organizations.” These words of wisdom are from the January 6th Oath of Office Ceremony for Milwaukee Police Chief Edward A. Flynn officiating the beginning of his second term. Mayor Barrett, Council President Hines, Milwaukee Fire and Police Commission Executive Director Tobin and many others were a part of the ceremony.
Safe & Sound is one of those community based organizations that the Chief referred to; one that’s mission is focused on bringing youth, residents and law enforcement together to reduce crime. In fact, the Chief is the chair of the Safe & Sound board providing his guidance and oversight. Our commitment to supporting after-school Safe Places and the neighborhood organizing efforts of our Community Partners are in their 14th year. The strengthened Community Prosecution partnerships and commitment to the problem-solving strategies is evident. Our collaborative work with the Milwaukee Department of Neighborhood Services Special Enforcement section is a “national model” for the abatement of community nuisances and long-terms issues. The Restorative Justice collaborations we have fostered are broad and deep, now coming to fruition with Children’s Court, the District Attorney’s Office and juvenile offenders. Our collaborative synergy with the Milwaukee Police Department has been central to these successes.
The first four year term of Chief Flynn has increased community policing efforts and accessibility as promised. His promise to reduce the levels of crime, fear and disorder in the city are viewed by most residents as a promise kept. Although there is always more work to be done, significant progress has been realized in the last four years.
Safe & Sound staff will continue to improve the strategies to build bridges between law enforcement, youth and residents living in the neighborhoods suffering from the highest crime statistics and lowest incomes in Milwaukee. The Milwaukee Police Department is a key to success and we are glad to have Chief Flynn continue as a leader focused on collaborative solutions.
For the Chief’s full speech visit the MPD Facebook Page
