If you’ve spent any time on Milwaukee’s Near South Side, you know it’s a place that doesn't sit still. It's loud, colorful, and packed with more history than most people realize. At the center of the daily grind for over 87,000 residents is the District 2 Milwaukee Police Department. People usually only think about the station at 245 W. Lincoln Ave when something goes wrong—a fender bender, a loud neighbor, or worse. But honestly, there’s a lot more to the story of this district than just sirens and flashing lights.
The district covers about 7.2 square miles. It’s a dense, urban patch of the city where the old-school Polish cathedrals now share the skyline with vibrant Latino murals. It's a place in transition.
The Neighborhoods Under District 2 Watch
District 2 isn't just one vibe. It’s a patchwork. You’ve got the Historic Mitchell Street area, which used to be the "downtown" for the city's Polish community and is now a massive hub for Hispanic-owned businesses. Then there's Clarke Square and Layton Boulevard West. These are the spots where the department spends a huge chunk of its time, often partnering with groups like Safe & Sound to try and keep the peace.
Capturing the essence of the "Near South Side" means acknowledging the complexity. It’s home to an active LGBTQ+ community and a massive immigrant population. Managing that kind of diversity isn't just about patrolling; it’s about translation—literally and figuratively.
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The station itself sits right there on Lincoln Avenue. If you need to reach them for something that isn't a 911-level emergency, the main line is (414) 935-7222. But here’s a tip: if you’re looking for a specific person, you might be playing phone tag for a while.
Leadership and the 2026 Landscape
Right now, as we move through early 2026, the leadership at District 2 Milwaukee Police Department is under a lot of scrutiny. Captain Erin E. Mejia has been the one at the helm recently, taking over a command that has historically been one of the busiest in the city. The mission she's inherited is basically a balancing act: trying to bring down the homicide rate while making sure people don't feel like they're living in a police state.
The numbers for 2025 were... mixed. Honestly, they were frustrating for a lot of residents. Citywide, homicides actually ticked up by about 8% last year, which felt like a gut punch after a couple of years of progress. But it's not all bad news. Non-fatal shootings dropped by nearly 20%. That suggests the "hot spot" policing and the Violent Crime Reduction Plan might be working on some levels, even if the most tragic outcomes are still harder to move.
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Why You Should Care About the Crime & Safety Meetings
If you want to know what’s actually happening on your block, the monthly Crime & Safety meetings are where the real talk happens. They usually hold these at the Mitchell Street Library (906 W. Historic Mitchell St).
Why go?
- Real Data: You get the actual stats for the month, not just what leaked onto social media.
- Face Time: You can actually look the Captain or the Community Liaison Officer, Jesus Gloria, in the eye and ask why there’s a drug house on your corner.
- Guest Speakers: They often bring in people from the District Attorney’s office or local nonprofits.
The next meeting is usually the third Wednesday of the month at 6:00 PM. Check the District 2 Facebook page before you head out, though, because they move things around sometimes.
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Community Programs You Probably Didn't Know About
It’s easy to be cynical about "community policing," but District 2 does run some specific initiatives that actually help people.
- The CAT Program: No, it’s not about pets. It stands for Combat Auto Theft. You sign a form allowing police to stop your car without cause if it’s being driven between 11:00 PM and 5:00 AM. In a city where car theft has been a nightmare, this is a pretty practical tool.
- Spanish Translation: Given the demographics, almost every pamphlet and form at the station is available in Spanish. They also have dedicated Spanish-speaking officers like Manuel Molina on the bike patrols.
- The Auxiliary Force: These are volunteers who help with traffic at festivals or neighborhood events. It’s a way for civilians to see the "other side" of the badge.
The Reality of Policing the South Side
Let’s be real for a second. The relationship between the District 2 Milwaukee Police Department and the community hasn't always been perfect. There’s a lot of old trauma in these neighborhoods. Many residents are wary of the police because of past encounters or immigration concerns.
The department has been trying to pivot toward a "data-driven" approach. This basically means they use analysts to figure out exactly where the crime is happening—down to the specific alleyway—and then they flood that area with patrols. Does it work? The 2025 drop in non-fatal shootings suggests it might. But it also means if you live in one of those "hot spots," you’re going to see a lot of blue lights.
Actionable Steps for Residents
If you live or work in District 2, don't just be a bystander. Here is how you actually interface with the station effectively:
- For Noise or Nuisances: Don't call 911. You’ll just clog the lines. Use the non-emergency number: (414) 933-4444.
- Report Drug Activity: You can contact the Anti-Gang Unit directly at (414) 935-7222. You can remain anonymous.
- Get a Decal: If you’re worried about your Kia or Hyundai getting snatched, go to the station on Lincoln and sign up for the CAT program.
- Attend a Meeting: Seriously. Even if you just go once, it changes how you see the neighborhood dynamics.
The District 2 Milwaukee Police Department is a massive machine. It’s got a population bigger than some Wisconsin cities packed into a few square miles. Whether you think they’re doing a great job or a terrible one, staying informed is the only way to actually have a say in how your neighborhood is policed.