(MILWAUKEE) CBS 58 — According to The Milwaukee Police Department, the city of Milwaukee has seen more homicides this year compared to the year 2023.

Milwaukee Police Chief Jeffrey Norman said his department has a plan to curb the violence ahead of what’s shaping up to be a busy summer.

The city has had its fair share of reckless driving, high speed chases, and unwarranted gunfire.

“This is a continuing issue of concern,” said Milwaukee Police Chief Jeffrey Norman.

Norman said his department made great strides in 2023, fighting back against criminal activity, but he still worries about the effects on Milwaukee’s youth.

“We are seeing unnecessary deaths and shootings that are not results of deaths, but they are still serious injuries to our young ones, because of these negligent particular actions that we as adults are opening that door for our young ones,” said Chief Norman.

Norman went on to say his department is working with other agencies like the Office of Community Wellness and Safety to ensure the well-being to those who call Milwaukee home.

“Knowing that they have a number of different connections in the community, being able to keep that communication,” said Norman.

According to the Milwaukee Police Department, there have been 13 homicides this year since the start of 2024, up from this time last year when there were nine. Two of this year’s murders were kids under the age of 17.

On the positive side, the number of non-deadly shootings is down significantly, with 40 so far this year, compared to 78 at the same time in 2023.

This year alone there have been more than 400 vehicle thefts and countless acts of reckless driving. 

“There is consequence in regard to citation and higher insurance, these are things the Milwaukee Police Department take no pride in doing but will do to ensure that we have that type of safety of our world, said Norman.

The chief said change comes when the city works together.

“It’s important for us to understand that we have to be there consistently, not just intermittently, and that we need to ensure that we are working together with all different type of resources to make true long-lasting impact,” said Chief Norman.