Milwaukee police officer accused; 'allegation of criminal misconduct'

MILWAUKEE - The Milwaukee Police Department announced on Monday, April 21, that one of its officers faces a "significant allegation of criminal misconduct," a news release says.

What we know:

The release from the police department identified the police officer as Vashaun Young. MPD Internal Affairs Division (IAD) has initiated a criminal investigation into the misconduct. Officials said on April 10, Young was placed on full suspension pending the outcome of the internal investigation. He has approximately five years of service with the department.

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Young was criminally charged on April 21 with one count of Endangering Safety by Use of Dangerous Weapon (from vehicle, at or Toward Building or Vehicle), Violent Crime in a School Zone, a Class F Felony.

The backstory:

According to the criminal complaint, cellphone video from March 2022 shows Young, while off-duty, driving in the area of 23rd and Burleigh around 2:30 am.

Prosecutors say Young fired two shots towards two homes. He apparently was not looking when he fired his gun and drove away singing.

Milwaukee Police Department

Investigators say the incident was all caught on video. Young was shown photos of the video and admitted it was him holding the gun and "presumes" he fired it.

What they're saying:

The homes are directly in front of NOVA School/COA Youth and Family Centers, where Myrtle Murphy picks up her grandchildren daily.

"It’s crazy because he’s supposed to be a person that’s going to protect these kids, not harm them, because bullets don’t have no eyes. Anybody could have got hit," Murphy said. "He’s sworn in to protect and to serve our community, so I’m really shocked to hear a police officer doing that."

The Milwaukee Police Association provided the following statement:

"The Milwaukee Police Association is aware of criminal charges issued today against a Milwaukee police officer for Endangering Safety by Use of a Dangerous Weapon and Violent Crime in a School Zone. The Officer, Vashaun Young, is currently on full suspension and we understand an internal investigation is ongoing. As with any individual, Young is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. We understand the seriousness of the charges and we strongly condemn the reckless act as alleged in the complaint. We also recognize the importance of the legal process in ensuring justice is served. As such, MPA will respect the ongoing investigation by not sharing any further statement at this time."

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Milwaukee Police Chief Jeffrey Norman said he "expects all members, sworn and civilian, to demonstrate the highest ethical standards in the performance of their duties and was extremely disappointed to learn about the incident."

 Norman wants to remind the public that everyone is afforded the right of due process under the law, and as such, are innocent until proven guilty.

What's next:

Young is set to appear in court on May 12.

If convicted, he could face up to 17 ½ years in prison and be fined up to $25,000.