Police use of force will receive review (MADISON)
Academics will review the Madison Police Department’s use of force. Professors Ian Adams and Scott Mourtgos (more-goes) from the University of South Carolina, will conduct the review. According to an MPD press release, both are world-renowned researchers and have spent years reviewing police use of force and other law enforcement trends. The release does not mention the July 22 fatal police shooting of Corey Ruiz. Adams and Mourtgos will travel to Madison to speak with MPD’s training staff and use of force experts. They will also attend virtual meetings. Work is set to begin in January and will culminate with a written report and recommendations for improvement.
Decline in international students drives UW System enrollment decline (MADISON)
Fewer international students drive a dip in UW System enrollment. 164,579 students are enrolled at Universities of Wisconsin, a decrease of 1,233, or 0.7%, after enrollment rose for the third consecutive year last year. Interim President Renée Wachter said in a news release that a decline of 1,134 international students, or 11%, accounts for nearly all of the overall enrollment decrease. UW-Madison, the system’s largest, saw a loss of 955 students, a 1.9% drop. UW-Milwaukee reported an additional 1,334 students a 5.9% increase. Green Bay, River Falls, Stout Polytechnic, Whitewater, Superior and Parkside also reported increased enrollments.
Watch out for phony utility calls, says Consumer Protection (UNDATED)
Don’t be fooled by scammers trying to get you to pay phony utility fees. Wisconsin Consumer protection administrator Michelle Reinen says your utility is not coming out to turn off the power or heat right now, especially not during the winter. “In Wisconsin, that’s not possible if you have unpaid bills because from November 1 to April 15th of every year, there is a winter heating moratorium for unpaid bills.” Even after the moratorium, there is an entire process for utilities to cut off power and every effort will be made to keep your heat on in the meantime. If you get a threatening call, simply hang up.
Governor and First Lady looking for ornaments for Executive Residence (MADISON)
Holiday ornaments are being sought for the Executive Residence. The annual holiday Tribute to Our Troops Tree honors Wisconsin service members past and present. Governor Tony Evers and First Lady Kathy Evers say families can submit personalized ornaments recognizing veterans, active-duty military, fallen service members, and those deployed during the holidays. The Tribute to Our Troops Tree has been a Wisconsin tradition since 2005 and will be featured during holiday celebrations at the Governor’s Residence.
It’s Crash Responder Safety Week (UNDATED)
Wisconsin drivers are being reminded to move over or slow down for roadside emergencies. Governor Tony Evers has proclaimed this week Crash Responder Safety Week. WisDOT says 72 emergency responders have been struck by vehicles while working roadside in Wisconsin over the past five years. Officials say slowing down and giving crews extra space can save lives and help prevent dangerous secondary crashes. Drivers are also reminded it’s the law to move over or slow down for emergency vehicles and disabled vehicles along the road.