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State Senator David Craig
Madison, WI — Today, State Senator David Craig (R-Town of Vernon) responded to the claims made by City of Milwaukee Police Chief Ed Flynn blaming concealed carry weapon (CCW) license holders for the crime problem in Milwaukee.
Chief Flynn’s comments on the concealed carry law:
“It’s an irresponsible law passed by irresponsible legislatures [sic] who are more interested in ideological points and I’d sure as hell like some more community outrage about that because that’s what driving the violence in this city and too many public officials are silent on it.”
“I am forbidden to tell the public when a CCW permit holder breaks the law. I’m forbidden by statute.”
Senator Craig released the following statement in response:
“First, Chief Flynn’s claim that he cannot disclose when a CCW holder commits a crime is patently false. There is clear allowance in §175.60(12g)(b)(1) to disclose information in the context of a prosecution when the CCW license is relevant to the crime,” said Craig. “Of course, if the Chief continues his failed policies and the district attorney will not prosecute actual crimes committed, then it is hard to get accurate crime data to the public. It is also hard to fight crime.”
“It is clear to everyone in the City of Milwaukee and the surrounding areas that the liberal, soft-on-crime policies like ‘no-chase’ and easy plea deals are what really drive the crime problems in Milwaukee,” said Craig. “If City leaders fully utilized all the current laws and powers at their disposal, the City of Milwaukee would be in much better shape.”
“Chief Flynn is playing politics instead of fixing problems under his direct control,” said Craig. “Criminals are not concerned with any laws, much less concealed carry laws. To further restrict the popular, successful CCW law and prevent citizens from protecting themselves from the very crime Chief Flynn has allowed to flourish is wrong and irresponsible.”
“I am also renewing the call to move forward on Senator Leah Vukmir’s and Representative Joe Sanfelippo’s audit request of crime data in Milwaukee to bring further transparency. Legislative leadership should act on this audit get to the root of the problems driving crime in Milwaukee,” said Craig.
Senator Craig represents the 28th Senate District which includes parts of Waukesha, Milwaukee, Racine, and Walworth counties.
