New Wauwatosa police chief begins 1st day on the job
New Wauwatosa police chief begins 1st day Monday
The Wauwatosa Police Department's new chief of police James MacGillis starts Monday, July 26.
WAUWATOSA, Wis. - The Wauwatosa Police Department's new chief of police James MacGillis starts Monday, July 26.
The Wauwatosa native and career law enforcement officer said as the new police chief, developing trust is a day one goal and said that can only be done through effective communication, be it in the department or within the community.
Even before his first day, MacGillis says he met with elected officials, department officers, and employees, as well as community leaders to ensure there are open lines of communication and opportunity for dialogue ahead of his first day.
James MacGillis
A recent report commissioned by the city looked at the police department and areas it could be improved, including recruitment, service, policies, and training. The report offered some telling responses from city leadership, residents, and department employees.
MacGillis has a request for the community:
"Let me get here," said MacGillis. "Let me get my feet planted. Let me work with the people within the department, work with community stakeholders, and I’m asking for patience."
FREE DOWNLOAD: Get breaking news alerts in the FOX6 News app for iOS or Android
In summer and fall 2020, Wauwatosa was at the center of protests and several nights of unrest following the decision to not charge a now-former Wauwatosa police officer in the shooting death of 17-year-old Alvin Cole. Former Police Chief Barry Weber was criticized for the police response to the October protests. Weber retired in June after more than 31 years as Wauwatosa's chief.
Featured
Court Appointed Special Advocates speak for vulnerable children
Across the nation and here at home, thousands of people are appointed by the courts to independently investigate and advocate for children in abusive situations.
Featured
Triple shooting in Milwaukee; result of argument, physical fight
Milwaukee police are investigating a triple shooting that happened near 41st and Ruby.
Newborn screening for rare diseases caught up in red tape
The call to test newborns for rare, but treatable diseases is growing. A FOX6 investigation finds the bureaucratic marathon proposed rules must endure could result in deadly delays.