The Milwaukee Police Department on Saturday released its year-end totals for UCR homicides in the city of Milwaukee. Chief Edward A. Flynn noted while there was an increase in 2010 from 2009, MPD statistics demonstrate a trend of homicide decreases over the past 10 years.
The Department reported 94 homicides in 2010 compared to 72 in 2009. While the 2010 crimes represent an increase over a year ago, there has been a 26 percent decrease in homicide in the city over the past 10 years and 56 percent since 1990.
“There are categories of violent behavior on which police tactics can have an impact and have had an impact this year,” Chief Flynn said. “Sadly, a dramatic increase in the number of arguments that ended in deadly violence coupled with an increase in domestic violence homicides accounted for 20 more victims this year than last.”
Chief Flynn continued, “We know more about homicide than ever before, thanks to our work with the Homicide Review Commission. Victim and suspect information, as well as primary factors that led to the violence all help provide context to this crime and can guide the development of new and innovative tactics and strategies.”
Chief Flynn offered additional facts on homicide in Milwaukee in 2010:
- In 2010, 76 percent of homicide victims had a criminal history with an average of 11 arrests; 86 percent of the suspects had a criminal history with an average of 8 arrests
- In 2009, 67 percent of victims had a criminal history, with an average of 9 arrests; 90 percent of the suspects had a criminal history with an average of 10 arrests
- Firearm-related homicides were down 5 percent in 2010 compared to 2009
- Non-fatal shootings were down 9 percent in 2010 compared to 2009
- 37 percent of the homicides were due to arguments or fights
- 25 percent of the homicides had a drug nexus as a primary factor
- 13 percent of the homicides were domestic violence-related
The release of total violent crime decreases in 2010 will be provided in late January.
