Police thank concerned citizen who tipped them off to large group gathered in street for video; 13 arrested

MILWAUKEE (WITI) -- Milwaukee police arrested 13 suspects on Monday, March 16th after they were dispatched to a neighborhood near 23rd and Center. Police believe a music video shoot was occurring in the street on Monday afternoon -- and some of those taking part had loaded guns and drugs.

A concerned citizen called police around 4:00 p.m. Monday -- saying at least 50 people, some armed with guns, were standing in the street. Most of the people ran when the officers arrived.

"A citizen called and had concerns for safety because of the amount of people and firearms in the street. If you're doing nothing wrong, there's no reason to run," Milwaukee Police Officer Jaime Rosado said.

"There was about 30 to 40 subjects. Some of the subjects had guns on them," Milwaukee Police Officer Christopher Ottaway said.

Officers caught and arrested 13 suspects varying in age from 14 to 21 for loitering. Four of the suspects were carrying loaded firearms, and some also had large amounts of marijuana and ecstasy pills in their possession.

The suspects were booked on various charges including possession of a controlled substance with intent to deliver, carrying a concealed weapon, possession of a stolen firearm, and loitering – drug-related activity.

Investigating officers later learned a local production company had been making a video in the street, which was the reason for the large crowd.

A woman who lives in the area says most of the people involved don't live in the neighborhood.

"It was ridiculous. It needs to stop. I'm tired of the violence. No structure, no morals, no respect, no standards. You're afraid to go to sleep. You're afraid to go out," the woman said.

"I`m sure there are better areas to make a music video," Officer Rosado said.

Police want to say "thank you" for the concerned citizen who gave them a call.

"If citizens are concerned about something going on in their block, they should call.  Even if it is anonymous," Officer Rosado said.

This group did not have a permit to be in the street in the first place.

The cases will be referred to the Milwaukee County District Attorney’s Office in the coming days for charges.