Milwaukee police officer recruitment, FPC changes announced

Milwaukee will launch a new round of police officer recruitment Friday, May 19. The FPC is making changes to the process going forward.

MILWAUKEE - Milwaukee will launch a new round of police officer recruitment Friday, May 19.

Additionally, according to the mayor's office, the Fire and Police Commission is making changes to the process so prospective police officers can now apply anytime going forward – not just during designated recruitment periods. The goal is to "increase the applicant pool and build on the progress made in having a police department that reflects the diversity of the city."

Also, Milwaukee Mayor Cavalier Johnson wants 30% of the police department to be women by 2030. Currently, women make up 16.29% of the department.

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Police Chief Jeffrey Norman said he is trying to instill a culture change within MPD with a goal to be more humane to the public and within the department. Johnson and FPC Executive Director Leon Todd both said that starts with hiring the right people who also reflect the city.

"We need dedicated, thoughtful and compassionate officers who understand that public service requires respect and understanding as much as strength and pride," Todd said.

The recruiting push comes at a time when the state has lost four law enforcement officers in the line of duty so far this year, including Milwaukee Police Officer Peter Jerving. That's why Norman said he's looking for people who understand it's not a job – but a calling.