Brazen Break-Ins Plague Milwaukee's East Side Neighborhoods

Residents of Milwaukee's east side neighborhoods have been grappling with a spate of car break-ins that have left them feeling violated and concerned for the safety of their community. The recent incidents, which have occurred across multiple neighborhoods, have sparked calls for increased police presence and action to address the growing problem.

Shattered Sense of Security: Residents Demand Action

A Troubling Trend Emerges

The car break-ins have been a persistent issue in the area, with many residents reporting that they have experienced the violation of their vehicles at least once. Andrew McTaggart, a property owner on the east side, shared his frustration, stating, "I think everyone who has lived here for a while has had their car broken into at least once." The incidents have become so common that the neighborhood has adapted, with residents taking precautions to avoid leaving valuables in their cars.

Daylight Strikes and Coordinated Attacks

The break-ins have occurred both during the night and in broad daylight, leaving residents feeling vulnerable and unsettled. Abby, a resident near the intersection of Cass and Pearson streets, recounted her experience, describing how her passenger-side window was smashed on two separate occasions, July 7 and July 17. The latter incident was particularly alarming, as Abby reported that "within our square block, about 20 cars that were hit. So it was a very common occurrence, the police were already on the block."

Spreading Across Neighborhoods

The problem has not been confined to a single area, with similar incidents reported in other east side neighborhoods. Artru Sergiendo, who moved to the area near Murray Avenue and Belleview Place about six months ago, said someone broke into his car last week. "I'm aggravated because, generally speaking, it's a very nice neighborhood. It's a very quiet neighborhood," Sergiendo expressed, highlighting the disruptive nature of the break-ins.

Brazen Attempts and Visible Damage

The extent of the break-ins has become increasingly apparent, with WISN 12 News cameras capturing a Hyundai near Prospect Avenue and Lafayette Place that appeared to have dents from someone attempting to pry the window open. This visible damage serves as a stark reminder of the boldness and persistence of the perpetrators.

Calls for Increased Police Presence

Residents have voiced their concerns and called for a stronger police presence to deter potential thieves. Abby expressed her frustration, stating, "It seems the police force are less active during the RNC. I'm hoping they will increase once the RNC is over to make sure our cars are protected throughout the night." The community is hopeful that a heightened law enforcement response will help curb the ongoing break-ins and restore a sense of safety in the neighborhood.

Ongoing Investigation and Collaboration

Milwaukee police are actively investigating the string of break-ins, particularly those reported near Cass and Pearson streets. WISN 12 News has reached out to the Milwaukee Police Department (MPD) for more information and to determine if the incidents across the different neighborhoods are connected. The community remains vigilant, awaiting updates and hoping for a swift resolution to this troubling situation.