MADISON — Gov. Tony Evers has authorized the Wisconsin National Guard to support local law enforcement authorities in Wisconsin, awaiting the decision of Officer Joseph Mensah in the shooting of 17-year-old Alvin Cole.
Local authorities requested assistance from the National Guard and for troops to be mobilized this week to state active duty.
“One of our core missions in the Wisconsin National Guard is to serve our fellow citizens and preserve public safety,” said Maj. Gen. Paul Knapp, Wisconsin’s adjutant general. “Our Citizen-Soldiers and Airmen live and work in the same communities all across Wisconsin, and we’re well-trained and prepared to assist our neighbors in any way we can.”
For security reasons, the Wisconsin National Guard will not release specific troop numbers.
Gov. Evers ordered into state active-duty members of the Wisconsin National Guard deemed necessary to support local law enforcement and first responders in Wauwatosa.
Guard members called to active duty will be used to support local law enforcement to preserve public safety, protect critical infrastructure, and cultural institutions necessary for the community's well-being and provide support to first responders.
