Serving Milwaukee since 1834
MPD’s History
Serving Milwaukee since 1834
MPD’s History
The origins of Milwaukee’s police department date back to 1834, when Milwaukee became a village and was appointed a town marshal. Over a decade later, in 1846, Milwaukee was officially named a city, and a city marshal was appointed to keep up with the city’s growth.
1855
In need of protection
Sheriffs Herman Page and William Beck eliminated several of the criminals plaguing Milwaukee’s streets, but citizens demanded a dedicated police force to keep their community safe. On October 4, 1855, the Milwaukee Police Department was formed.
1888
A growing force
William Beck was named the first Chief of Police, and he selected six policemen to join the department. By 1888, the department had 181 members under Police Chief John Janssen. At the time, police officers worked up to 17 hours per day.
In 1921, the Harbor Patrol was established, which keeps watch over the waterways of the City of Milwaukee.
Judson W. Minor
First black police officer to join the MPD
Ada Wright
First female police officer in the MPD
1924
Strength through diversity
Judson W. Minor, the first African American police officer to join the MPD, was appointed on October 13, 1924.
On April 21, 1975, Ada Wright became the first female police officer in the Department.
By 1997, 29.7% of the force was comprised of minorities, and 14.7% were women.
1977
A desire to improve
Between 1977 and 1984, legislative amendments expanded the authority of the Board of Fire and Police Commissioners, provided terms for the chiefs, empowered the Board to promulgate rules and give directions to chiefs, and required the Board to conduct an annual policy review of the departments.
Today, the Milwaukee Police Department is led by Chief Jeffrey B. Norman, who was appointed in 2021. The Department is committed to protecting the city’s 550,000+ citizens.
