Police now see drugs through a public health lens while shifting resources to violent crime. Some residents want more help in responding to drug dangers.
Author Archives: Edgar Mendez / Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Edgar Mendez is a senior staff reporter for the Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service. He won a 2018 Regional Edward R. Murrow Award and 2014, 2017, and 2018 Milwaukee Press Club Awards for his reporting on taverns, marijuana law enforcement, and lead in water service lines.
In 2008, he won a Society of Professional Journalists’ regional award for columns dealing with issues such as poverty, homelessness and racism. His writing has been published by the Associated Press, Reuters, Milwaukee Journal Sentinel and other media.
Posted inHealth & Welfare
As drug overdose deaths soar, Milwaukee County considers use of opioid settlement funds
Milwaukee County is on pace this year to surpass last year’s record-high total of 643 drug overdose deaths.
Posted inJustice & Safety
Where did that gun used in a crime come from? Milwaukee police can’t easily tell you
The Milwaukee Police Department has not tracked the origin of thousands of guns confiscated each year.
Posted inJustice & Safety
‘It has been set back years now’: Free calls plan for those who are incarcerated hits a snag in Milwaukee County
A plan for free calls for those jailed at the Milwaukee County House of Correction and the Milwaukee County Jail has been blocked due to budgetary considerations.
Posted inJustice & Safety
Milwaukee eyes driver education to combat reckless driving crisis
Thousands of Milwaukee Public Schools students get low-cost instruction: ‘Our goal is to reach as many students as we can to give them the tools to be a safe driver’
Posted inCoronavirus Coverage, Justice & Safety
Milwaukee Police stay-at-home arrests reveal deep racial disparities
African Americans make up the majority of residents arrested on charges of violating Milwaukee’s stay-at-home order, data show.
Posted inCoronavirus Coverage
Milwaukee County on pace to top overdose record again in 2020
The pandemic has left many who struggle with substance abuse out of work, creating roadblocks to recovery.