More people are being detained by ICE, but more than half don’t have attorneys to help them.
Devin Blake
Devin Blake began his career as a journalist at Patch, covering the Southern California communities he grew up in, with a particular focus on local businesses, unemployment, and organizations addressing unmet community needs. As he witnessed the growing homelessness crisis, he transitioned into working as a resource and information coordinator, supporting community groups and nonprofits serving unhoused populations, including the elderly, developmentally disabled, and individuals living with HIV/AIDS. In addition to his community-focused work, Blake has contributed to publications such as New York Magazine, The Onion, and McSweeney’s. He enjoys spending time with his wife and navigating the daily adventures of parenting his young son.
Posted inCommunity, Health and Wellness, Resources
Community reflects on latest loss of support for residents after news that City on a Hill is closing
The closure of City on a Hill is the latest blow to North and West Side residents already impacted by the loss of social services, grocery stores and other resources.
Posted inCommunity, Public Safety & Criminal Justice
Does Wisconsin need stronger gun storage laws to help keep kids safe?
Research and some experts point out the safety benefits of stronger gun storage laws. But critics say stricter laws could limit access in emergencies.
Posted inPublic Safety & Criminal Justice
MPD banned its officers from concealing their identities. Will the Common Council extend a similar policy to ICE agents?
A proposed ordinance would prohibit face coverings for all law enforcement agencies operating in Milwaukee – including U.S. Immigrations and Customs Enforcement.
Posted inCommunity, Public Safety & Criminal Justice
Evers to veto a bill weakening Common Council authority over MPD policy
Gov. Tony Evers said he plans to veto a Republican-led measure that would further limit the Milwaukee Common Council’s ability to influence Milwaukee Police Department policy.
Posted inPublic Safety & Criminal Justice
What do you do when the Parole Commission says you’re lying? Following up with Derek Williams
Derek Williams disputes the conclusion of the Wisconsin Parole Commission that he was dishonest. He says the setback slowed his progress toward parole.
Posted inCommunity, Public Safety & Criminal Justice
Center for Self-Sufficiency quietly closed last year amid a federal audit and funding challenges
The nonprofit closed in September and had a program that was the subject of an audit by the U.S. Department of Justice Office of the Inspector General.
Posted inEducation, Public Safety & Criminal Justice
‘That is not your job’: These students say school resource officers are overstepping their authority
We spoke to several Milwaukee Public Schools students who say some school resource officers are enforcing school rules instead of responding to crimes.
Posted inPublic Safety & Criminal Justice
Update: Milwaukee County Sheriff’s Office decides against using facial recognition technology
The Sheriff’s Office cited valid concerns from advocates about the use of the technology to obtain data, but left open the door for its use in the future.
Posted inPublic Safety & Criminal Justice
Critics still wary of facial recognition technology use by law enforcement
Residents and others are still raising concerns over the potential use of the controversial technology. MPD says it no longer plans to use the technology, and also announced the suspension of an officer for improper use of a different tracking technology.