Another outbreak of nonfatal shootings in Milwaukee – including of four children – has upset Mayor Tom Barrett and led to the introduction of a gun hotline.
Barrett held a news conference on Monday afternoon, and listed the victims of shootings that had taken place that day alone: two 33 year old black, two 20-year-olds, and a 16-year-old, all them black and male.
Barrett said since Friday, there have been 12 shooting incidents in the city and 14 people have been wounded – including children who are 5 months, six years, 11 years and 16 year of age.
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“So far this year in Milwaukee, 30 children have been shot,” said Barrett. “This is insane.”
Barrett again called on Gov. Scott Walker and the Republican-controlled state Legislature to pass tougher gun laws and penalties. Walker said on Thursday that he’d consider some measures after the fall election.
In the meantime, Barrett has announced a city-sponsored hotline for residents to call in with anonymous tips about illegal guns.
“335-GUNS is Milwaukee’s confidential gun hotline,” said Barrett. “Callers can provide details and information that will help us get guns off of our streets.”
The number of 335-4867 is in the 414 area code.
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