One suspect has been arrested in connection to a spree of seven armed robberies near the UW-Milwaukee campus in late January. The other three suspects involved in the robberies are still at large, the Milwaukee Police Department told The Post.
This arrest came about 10 days after the spree of robberies which occurred on the evening of Thursday, Jan. 19, early Jan. 20, and the evening of Jan. 21 on Milwaukee’s east side and Shorewood near campus, UWM-PD alerts show.
Three of the robberies occurred in the Upper East Side neighborhood and Shorewood. Victims were left unharmed.
UWM-PD alerted students of four suspects believed to be driving a stolen white 2020 KIA Sportage with Minnesota plates; they have previously used a white and silver sedan, according to UWM emergency alerts.
According to MPD, the juvenile suspect was arrested on Jan. 29 after his identification through DNA, at a traffic stop near the northern Border of District 3 or Center Street.
The DA’s office has marked the case and suspect pending further investigation.
“[The other three suspects are] Un-identified and at large, although there is still evidence recovered that may lead to further identifications and apprehensions,” MPD District 1 Community Liaison Officer Jordan Emmons told The Post in an email.
In response to the robberies, UWM Police adjusted patrols around campus and surrounding neighborhoods. The increased patrols include but aren’t limited to Kenwood Blvd. to North Avenue (north to south) and Cambridge Avenue to Lake Drive (east to west), according to UWM-PD community policing officer Craig Rafferty.
“I do 99% of the new student orientations,” Rafferty said. “I’m telling students during those orientation classes and throughout the semester that you have got to be aware, alert, informed, and prepared.”
Students, staff and faculty are encouraged to download the RAVE guardian app to receive UWM emergency alerts and utilize the B.O.S.S. safe ride service. UWM-PD urges the community to remain aware of their surroundings and to report any suspicious activity.
“You have got to be mindful,” said Rafferty. “I call it common sense defense, standing tall, walking confidently, and not being alone at night.”
If the suspects’ vehicles or suspects are seen, the community is strongly encouraged to call 911 or 414-229-9911, the UWM emergency number, or 414-229-4627, the UWM non-emergency number. The Milwaukee Police Department can be reached at (414) 933-4444.