Milwaukee Has Two Deadly Problems: COVID-19 & Homicide
Milwaukee is experiencing another deadly issue besides COVID-19: Homicide. In fact, Milwaukee’s homicide rates have doubled in the first six months of 2020 compared to the same time in 2019. The city has aimed to reduce homicide rates for years now, but according to the Milwaukee Police Department chief, Alfonso Morales, officers are reacting to crimes, rather than being proactive, to limit their exposure to COVID-19.
Although there is no clear reason why homicide rates have increased, it’s important to recognize that domestic violence homicides are part of this alarming statistic. Thousands of Milwaukee residents are staying at home to reduce exposure to COVID-19 but doing this also increases exposure to abuse for domestic violence victims.
Inspector Terrence Gordon said that as of June 4th, 35% of homicides resulted from family and intimate violence, according to the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. Considering that millions of Americans are unemployed and forced to quarantine with their families, tensions and stress could likely play a role in these increasing domestic violence homicides.
Homicide Penalties
Homicide and murder are interchangeable terms, but the specific type of charge depends on whether there is intention or recklessness involved:
First-degree intentional homicide: Whoever causes the death of another human being with intent to kill that person or another is guilty of a Class A felony punishable by life imprisonment.
First-degree reckless homicide: Whoever recklessly causes the death of another human being under circumstances which show utter disregard for human life is guilty of a Class B felony is punishable by up to 60 years in prison.
Second-degree intentional homicide: Whoever causes the death of another human being with intent to kill that person or another is guilty of a Class B felony punishable by up to 60 years in prison.
Second-degree reckless homicide: Whoever recklessly causes the death of another human being is guilty of a Class D felony punishable by up to a $100,000 fine and/or up to 25 years in prison.
Former Prosecutor Fighting Violent Crimes Charges
Our Milwaukee violent crimes defense lawyer is ready to help you fight your homicide accusations with full force. We don’t take your charges lightly and can exhaust our powerful legal resources and competence to best combat your charges. The impact of a homicide conviction can be devastating, which is why our mission is to reduce or dismiss your charges altogether.
It’s important to contact (414) 882-8382 as soon as you’re aware of an investigation or charge against you, as time is of the essence. We look forward to hearing from you.