by Charlotte Scott
Spectrum News 1
Washington, DC
July 1, 2024

Data from the Milwaukee Police Department shows a significant drop in violent crime, with homicides down 41% during the first six months of the year compared to the same period two years ago. This reflects a trend of violent crime falling nationwide.

“The proof’s in the pudding,” said Norman. “When you look at, in regards to the actual numbers, it doesn’t reflect any narrative out there in regards to that there is not good work going on within our city.”

But experts said public perception of crime is not driven by data, but instead by social media, local news coverage, and political speech, and politicians talk about crime, even when it’s down, because it’s historically motivated voters.

“Interpret their discussion of crime as a reason to look into that issue, but do not believe what they’re telling you about crime,” said Dr. Jeffrey Butts, Director of the Research and Evaluation Center at John Jay College. “All politicians across the spectrum will mislead and misuse the issue because they know it works.”

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