MPD steps up effort to combat rash of street robberies

MILWAUKEE (WITI) -- Parts of Milwaukee will see more police officers and known criminals may need to start looking over their shoulders. It's part of a stepped-up effort to combat a rash of street robberies.

Police say they will be more visible by car, motorcycle and bicycle on Milwaukee's north side -- in the areas of Police Districts 3 and 5.

The North Robbery Reduction Initiative will include focusing on known robbers, tracking them down, and arresting those with warrants.

Detectives are also researching past robberies -- looking for links to other robberies in the hopes of solving more crimes.

One of the most popular items robbers are taking -- smartphones -- especially from people at bus stops.