Chief Flynn addresses officers after 5 shootings in 24 hours

MILWAUKEE (WITI) -- After five separate shooting incidents in a 24-hour period, Milwaukee Police Chief Ed Flynn is working to restore confidence in District Five.

Flynn spoke to his officers on Saturday, July 27th, instructing them to be seen in areas where illegal activity is most likely to happen.

"There's a lot of guns on the street. It's our job to try and get you the information on suspects and locations as quickly as we can," Flynn said, addressing the officers. "Two thirds of the week's shootings took place in the last 24 hours."

There were eight victims, including a 14-year-old who was killed, during the 24-hour rash of shootings that began Friday night, July 26th. There have been a total of 12 shootings within the past week.

"You had four victims in one shooting in a dispute over something that was, in the big picture, meaningless foolishness," said Flynn.

The City fears there could be more retaliation heading into Saturday night. Milwaukee police will be dispersed into areas that Flynn describes as "hot spots." Officers have been instructed to remain visible in troubled areas and look for persons of interest in connection with this weeks gun violence.

Police are also asking neighbors to do their part.

"Too many people in the neighborhood.are part of the ongoing melodrama and we need folks in the neighborhood who are willing to pick up that phone forthwith and say 'hey this is my neighborhood, too,'" said Flynn.

Mayor Tom Barrett is also sending a message directed at parents with teenagers.

"They should not be out after the curfew. They should not be out roaming in the streets. If you care for your kid, make sure you know where your child is and make sure your child is in a safe place," said Barrett.

Milwaukee police have arrested at least five people for illegal gun possession in the past few days. They are still looking for persons of interest in connection with the death of the 14-year-old.