Wanted Persons Search gives you instant access to Milwaukee’s official records, letting you verify if a name appears on the current wanted list without endless scrolling. By entering a suspect’s name, date of birth, or case number, you can pull up the wanted person database that includes photographs, physical descriptions, aliases, and the issuing agency’s details. The system updates regularly, so you’ll see whether the individual is actively wanted, recently added, or already captured, and you can check the status of any outstanding warrant. This quick lookup helps families, employers, and community members answer the common question, “how to check if someone is wanted,” while also supporting public safety by encouraging accurate tip submissions.
Wanted Persons Search also explains why a person may appear on the list, covering offenses such as failure to appear in court, probation violations, or serious criminal allegations. When you search for a wanted person by name, the results show the most relevant records, including case numbers, alleged offense information, and last known location. Understanding how to verify a wanted person record and how often the listings are refreshed empowers you to act responsibly—whether you need to report a sighting, avoid contact, or simply satisfy a curiosity about a public record.
How to Search Wanted Persons
You can search wanted persons in Milwaukee using the official Milwaukee County Sheriff’s Office online portal. This lookup tool lets you check the current wanted list by entering a person’s name, date of birth, or case number. You can also access active warrants case files to review official records. The system pulls data directly from sheriff records, giving you access to the same database that law enforcement officers use every day. Whether you need to verify someone’s status or check a name you heard about, the search process is fast and free for public users.
The Milwaukee County wanted persons search portal is maintained by the Investigations Bureau and updated regularly to reflect new warrants, captures, and removals. You do not need an account to perform a basic search, and you can view full record details without creating a login. The portal is hosted on the county’s official website, so you can trust that the information you find comes from a verified government source.
Official Search Portal: https://county.milwaukee.gov/EN/Sheriff/Divisions/Investigations
Steps to Search
- Visit the Milwaukee County Sheriff’s Office Investigations page at the official portal link.
- Locate the wanted persons search section on the page.
- Type the person’s full name into the search field.
- Add a date of birth or case number if you have it, to narrow your results.
- Review the list of matching records, including photographs and charges.
- Click on a name to see full details like warrant status and issuing agency.
Search by Name
Searching by name is the most common way people look up wanted persons. You can enter a first name, last name, or full name into the search field to see matching records. The system shows all names on file, so common names may return several results. To get the best match, include both first and last names, and add any middle names you know.
If you are unsure of the exact spelling, you can try partial name searches using the first few characters of the last name. The database often stores aliases and known nicknames, so an alias search may also help you find the correct record. Always double-check the date of birth and physical description to confirm you have the right person before drawing conclusions.
Search by Case or Reference Number
Searching by case number or reference number gives you the most direct path to a specific record. Every warrant has a unique case number assigned by the issuing court or law enforcement agency. If you have a citation, court document, or police report, you can use that number to pull up the exact entry in the wanted persons database.
This method works well when you already know the person is wanted but need to check current status or see the issuing agency. Reference numbers also help when you want to avoid confusion with common names. The search results will show the same details you would get from a name search, but with higher accuracy and fewer unrelated matches.
Information Needed for a Search
To perform an accurate wanted persons search, you only need a few basic facts. A full legal name is the most helpful starting point, followed by an approximate date of birth if available. A case or warrant number makes the search even more precise and is useful when you have official documents in hand.
If you have a physical description, photograph, or alias, those details help confirm a match after you run the search. Last known address or last known location can also narrow down the right person. Without these facts, you can still search using only a last name, but you may need to review more results to find the right record.
Wanted Person Information
Each entry on the Milwaukee wanted persons list contains a set of standard record fields. These fields are set by law enforcement standards and give the public enough details to identify someone and understand why they are wanted. Knowing what each field means helps you read the records correctly and use the information responsibly.
The records are public under Wisconsin open records laws, with some limits on sensitive details. You can view most fields freely, but some restricted information may be hidden from view. The fields listed here cover what you will typically see when you open a wanted person entry.
Name and Identifying Details
The name field shows the full legal name of the wanted person as it appears on official records. This is the name used on court filings, arrest warrants, and law enforcement databases. The record may also list aliases, nicknames, or other names the person has used in the past.
Identifying details often include the person’s date of birth, race, and sex. These fields help confirm you have the right individual, especially when common names return multiple matches. Some records also include a state identification number, which is a unique identifier assigned by state agencies.
Photograph and Physical Description
Most wanted persons records include a photograph, usually a mugshot taken at the time of arrest or booking. The photograph helps the public recognize the individual and aids law enforcement in identification. If a photograph is not available, the record may note that no image is on file.
The physical description lists measurable traits such as height, weight, eye color, and hair color. It may also note scars, tattoos, or other distinguishing features. These details are useful when you need to identify someone without a clear photo or when confirming a sighting.
Date of Birth and Age
The date of birth shows the exact day the wanted person was born. This field is often required for identification, especially when multiple people share the same name. The system may also display the current age based on the date of birth, though this changes over time.
If you only know a rough age range, you can use it to filter search results. Knowing the date of birth is one of the fastest ways to confirm a match. It also helps separate active warrants from older cases where the person’s age may no longer match current records.
Alleged Offense Information
The alleged offense field lists the charges that led to the warrant. These may include criminal allegations such as assault, theft, fraud, or failure to appear in court. Each offense is described using legal language found in state statutes.
Remember that wanted listings list alleged offenses, not convictions. The person is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court. The record may also classify the offense as a misdemeanor, felony, or other category under Wisconsin law.
Warrant or Case Reference
Every wanted person record links to a specific warrant or case reference number. This number ties the listing to the court documents and law enforcement files that created the warrant. The warrant status field shows whether the warrant is active, recalled, or served.
Some records may show multiple warrants if the person has outstanding cases in different courts. The warrant reference helps you track each case separately. This is especially useful for people with several pending charges or court appearances.
Wanted Status
The wanted status field tells you whether the person is currently wanted, recently added, or has been captured. This field updates regularly as law enforcement agencies process new arrests or resolve old warrants. A status of “active” means the warrant is still open and law enforcement is looking for the person.
Other status types include “located” or “apprehended,” which mean the person has been found. A “removed” status means the listing has been taken off the public search page, usually because the warrant was cleared or recalled. Always check the status before taking any action based on the record.
Wanted Person Search Results
After you run a search, the system returns a list of matching records. Each result shows a short summary, and you can click for full details. Knowing how to read these summaries helps you find the right person quickly and avoid confusion with similar names.
The results page often displays a photograph, name, date of birth, and the main offense for every match. If the system returns many results, you can sort or filter them to focus on the most relevant entries. Reading each summary carefully saves time and reduces the risk of error.
Identifying the Correct Person
To identify the correct person, compare the search result to any details you already know. Start with the full name, then check the date of birth, photograph, and physical description. If the record lists aliases, check those as well to be sure.
When in doubt, narrow your search using extra details such as the last known address or case number. The more facts you have, the easier it is to confirm a match. Never assume a match just because the last name matches a personal record.
Matching Names and Identifying Details
Many people share the same first and last names, so matching names alone is not enough. You need to check at least two or three identifying details to be sure. Common matching fields include date of birth, aliases, and physical descriptions.
If you find two records with similar names, compare the height, weight, and eye color listed on the record. Photographs, when available, offer the strongest confirmation. Always look for multiple matches before settling on a single entry.
Reviewing Wanted Status
The wanted status tells you whether the person is still being sought by police. An active status means the warrant is open. A located or captured status means the person has already been found. A removed status means the listing is no longer public.
Reviewing the status is important before you share information or take action. Records with an active status are the only ones where public tips can help law enforcement. Captured or removed records do not need new tips and are kept for historical reference only.
Checking Record Updates
Wanted person records update on a regular schedule as new information comes in. The date a record was last updated usually appears on the listing page. This helps you know how fresh the information is and whether you should check back later.
Records update when warrants are issued, served, recalled, or amended. Law enforcement agencies submit updates to the database, and the portal reflects those changes. If a record looks outdated, you may want to check again in a few days for the newest version.
Verifying Available Information
Verifying a wanted person record means checking it against trusted sources. Cross-reference the details with court records, police reports, or news articles if available. The official Milwaukee County portal is the most trusted source for current records.
If you find conflicting details across sources, rely on the official portal as the primary source. Court records and police databases are updated by the same agencies that maintain the wanted list. Avoid third-party sites that may copy old or incomplete data.
Wanted Person Status
The wanted person status section of the portal organizes records by their current state. This helps you see whether someone is actively wanted, recently added, or already taken into custody. Each status type plays a different role in public safety and law enforcement work.
Status updates flow through the system as new warrants are issued and old ones are resolved. You can browse each status category to get a clear view of the active search efforts in Milwaukee County.
Currently Wanted Individuals
Currently wanted individuals are people with active, open warrants. Their records show a clear photograph, physical description, and the offense they are wanted for. Law enforcement is actively looking for these individuals and welcomes tips from the public.
You can browse the full set of currently wanted persons using the portal. The list refreshes as new warrants are added and old ones are cleared. Anyone with information about these individuals should contact the sheriff’s office or submit a tip right away.
Recently Added Listings
Recently added listings show individuals who were placed on the wanted list within the past few days or weeks. These entries are often flagged as new, so users can see the latest additions at a glance. New listings may have less information on file, and records fill in as the case moves forward.
Checking recent additions helps you stay current on local law enforcement activity. Family members and community groups often review these listings to stay aware of new warrants in their area. The system updates this section as soon as new records are processed.
Located or Captured Individuals
Located or captured individuals have been found and taken into custody. Their records stay on the system briefly before being moved to the removed list. You can also access recent arrests records to review official records. These entries help show that the wanted list is working and that tips from the public are making a difference.
When a person is captured, the system updates the status field and adds a note about the outcome. You can browse captured records to see recent arrests tied to public tips. This transparency helps build trust between law enforcement and the community.
Removed Wanted Listings
Removed wanted listings are records that no longer appear on the public search page. Removal happens when the warrant is recalled, the person is cleared of charges, or the case is resolved in court. Once a record is removed, it moves to an archived section that is not shown to the public.
The system keeps removed records for internal law enforcement use, but they are no longer part of the public wanted list. If you are searching for someone and cannot find their record, they may have been removed from public view. Contact the sheriff’s office for more details if needed.
Status Updates
Status updates reflect the most recent changes to each wanted person record. The portal adds a timestamp or note when a status changes, so you can see when the record was last edited. This helps you judge how current the listing is and whether you need to check back later.
Updates happen when warrants are issued, served, or recalled. They also happen when new identifying details come in or when a person is captured. The system processes these updates on a rolling schedule to keep the public list as accurate as possible.
Why a Person May Appear on a Wanted List
A person may appear on a wanted list for many reasons, and each reason ties back to a specific court action or law enforcement request. Most listings result from warrants issued by judges based on probable cause or failure to meet court requirements. Knowing the common reasons helps you understand the records you see.
The Milwaukee wanted list reflects cases from local, county, and state courts. Some entries are tied to municipal violations, while others stem from serious felony charges. Each reason for being wanted is linked to a specific case file you can review.
Outstanding Arrest Warrants
An outstanding arrest warrant is a court order for law enforcement to take a person into custody. Warrants are issued after a judge reviews evidence or probable cause from police. Once issued, the person’s name is added to the public wanted list so the community can help locate them.
Outstanding warrants stay active until the person is arrested or the warrant is recalled by the court. Some warrants remain open for years if the person cannot be found. The warrant status field on the record shows whether the warrant is still open or has been cleared.
Failure to Appear in Court
Failure to appear in court is one of the most common reasons for a wanted listing. When a person misses a scheduled court date without a valid excuse, the judge may issue a bench warrant for their arrest. This adds them to the wanted list until they resolve the missed date.
Failure to appear can happen in any type of case, from traffic violations to felony hearings. The court notifies law enforcement, who update the person’s status in the wanted portal. Resolving the failure often clears the listing from the portal as well.
Probation or Parole Violations
Probation or parole violations occur when a person breaks the rules set by the court or parole board. These violations may include missed check-ins, failed drug tests, or new criminal charges. When violations occur, the supervising agency can issue a warrant for the person’s return to custody.
People on probation or parole who violate their terms often appear on the wanted list until they are taken back into custody. The record may note the type of violation and the supervising agency. Once the person is returned to custody, the record is updated and eventually removed.
Serious Criminal Allegations
Serious criminal allegations such as assault, robbery, drug trafficking, or homicide lead to active warrants and wanted listings. These cases often draw the most public attention and may involve rewards for tips. The record shows the alleged offense and the issuing agency for the warrant.
The wanted list helps law enforcement locate suspects in serious cases by reaching a wider audience. Tips from the public play a key role in solving these cases. The portal encourages anyone with information to contact the sheriff’s office or submit a tip right away.
Other Reasons for Wanted Status
Other reasons for wanted status include child support orders, civil contempt of court, and out-of-state warrants. Some listings also cover immigration holds or federal charges transferred to local jurisdictions. Each reason has its own legal basis and court process.
You may see records that fall outside the usual criminal categories. These cases still carry valid warrants, so law enforcement treats them with the same urgency. Reviewing the offense field on each record tells you exactly why a person is on the list.
Wanted Person Records
Wanted person records follow a standard structure that helps the public and law enforcement read them quickly. Each record ties to a specific case and shows the details of the warrant, the alleged offense, and the issuing agency. Understanding this structure helps you use the records the right way.
The Milwaukee County Sheriff’s Office maintains these records as part of its public information duties. The records comply with Wisconsin public records laws, with limits on sensitive or sealed information. Most fields are open to public view, but some details may be restricted.
Warrant Information
Warrant information shows the type of warrant issued and the date it was filed. Types include arrest warrants, bench warrants, and fugitive warrants. Each type comes with different legal rules and procedures for service.
The warrant status field shows whether the warrant is active, recalled, or served. This field updates regularly as the case progresses. Warrant information also includes the issuing court and the case number tied to the warrant.
Case Information
Case information ties the warrant to the underlying court case. It shows the case number, the court where the case is filed, and the type of case. The case number links the wanted record to other court records for review.
Case information may also include the date the case was opened and the next scheduled court date, if any. These dates help you track how the case is moving through the court system. Some cases may have multiple entries if there are several warrants tied to them.
Alleged Offense Details
Alleged offense details describe the charges linked to the warrant. Each charge is listed with its statutory reference under Wisconsin law. The record shows whether the charge is a misdemeanor, felony, or other category.
Reading the offense details helps you understand why the person is wanted. The details also clarify the severity of the alleged crime. Remember that allegations are not convictions, and the person is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
Issuing Agency
The issuing agency is the law enforcement office or court that requested and obtained the warrant. For most Milwaukee records, this is the Milwaukee County Sheriff’s Office or another local police department. In some cases, the issuing agency may be a state or federal agency.
Knowing the issuing agency helps you direct tips to the right office. Each agency has its own contact number and tip line. The record usually lists the agency name and a contact reference for follow-up.
Last Known Information
Last known information includes the person’s last known address, last known location, or last known employer. This data is often used to help locate the individual. The information may be outdated if the person has moved or changed jobs since the warrant was issued.
Last known information helps the public and law enforcement narrow down possible locations for the individual. Use this data with caution, as it may not reflect the person’s current address. Always contact law enforcement before acting on last known details.
Record Publication Date
The record publication date shows when the listing was first posted on the public portal. This helps you judge how long the person has been on the wanted list. New records usually show recent publication dates, while older cases show dates from months or years ago.
The publication date also helps you see when the record was last refreshed. Some records show a “last updated” date alongside the publication date. These dates help you tell whether you are looking at the most current version of the record.
Wanted Persons Outside the Local Area
Some people on the Milwaukee wanted list are not currently located in Milwaukee County. They may live in other parts of Wisconsin, in neighboring states, or in other parts of the country. The system tracks these out-of-area cases to support cooperation between agencies.
Records for out-of-area wanted persons often note the location where the warrant was issued and any last known locations outside Milwaukee. Law enforcement agencies coordinate across jurisdictions to find and apprehend these individuals. Public tips play a role in this coordination as well.
Individuals Located in Other Jurisdictions
Individuals located in other jurisdictions may have warrants issued in Milwaukee but live or travel elsewhere. Their records show a Milwaukee case number but may list an out-of-state last known address. Law enforcement agencies share these records through interstate cooperation.
If you spot someone you know in another state or city, you can still report the sighting to Milwaukee law enforcement. They will coordinate with the local agency to take action. Tips from the public help bridge gaps in interstate cases.
Out-of-Area Wanted Persons
Out-of-area wanted persons include people with Milwaukee warrants who are believed to be in other counties or states. You can also access sex offenders to review official records. Their records may include a note about the suspected location. These listings are part of the public portal so anyone, anywhere, can help if they recognize the individual.
Out-of-area listings often involve interstate crime, extraditable offenses, or fugitives who have fled the state. Law enforcement uses these listings to keep the public informed across state lines. You can submit a tip through the Milwaukee portal even if you are outside the area.
Extradition Information
Extradition is the legal process of returning a wanted person from one state to another. For serious offenses, Milwaukee can request extradition from the state where the person is found. The extradition process involves court hearings in both states.
Some warrants waive extradition, which means the person can be returned to Milwaukee without a full hearing. Other warrants require formal extradition proceedings. The record may include a note about extradition status, but this field is not always shown to the public.
Interagency Cooperation
Interagency cooperation is the joint effort between local, state, and federal agencies to locate and apprehend wanted persons. The Milwaukee County Sheriff’s Office works with agencies across Wisconsin and the country to resolve outstanding warrants. This cooperation makes the wanted list more effective.
Interagency cooperation also includes data sharing through shared databases and joint task forces. The public wanted list is one tool among many used by these teams. Public tips are forwarded to the right agency for action.
Reporting Information About a Wanted Person
Reporting information about a wanted person helps law enforcement locate individuals quickly and safely. The Milwaukee County Sheriff’s Office accepts tips from the public through several channels. Knowing how and when to report makes the process easier and safer for everyone involved.
You should never try to approach a wanted person on your own. Instead, contact law enforcement with any details you have, and let trained officers handle the situation. Your tip could make the difference in resolving a case.
How to Submit a Tip
You can submit a tip by calling the Milwaukee County Sheriff’s Office tip line or by using the online tip form on the official portal. The tip line connects you with staff who can record your information and forward it to the right unit. Online tips work well for non-urgent details you want to share.
When you submit a tip, be ready to share what you know and how you know it. Tips should include the time, place, and nature of the sighting or information. The more accurate your tip, the more useful it is to law enforcement.
Anonymous Tip Options
Anonymous tip options let you share information without revealing your identity. You can call the tip line and ask to remain anonymous, or use the online form without entering your name. Law enforcement takes anonymous tips seriously and follows up on every report.
Anonymous tips are especially useful when you have safety concerns about sharing your identity. Law enforcement will still act on the information, even if you do not give your name. You can also request that your contact details be kept confidential.
Information to Include in a Tip
A good tip includes the person’s name, date of birth, and a description of what you saw. You should also include the location, time, and any vehicles involved. If you have photographs or videos, note their availability so officers can request them.
The table below lists the most helpful details to include when you report a wanted person sighting.
| Detail Type | Why It Helps |
|---|---|
| Full name and date of birth | Confirms the identity of the person you saw |
| Date, time, and location of sighting | Helps officers respond quickly and find the person |
| Physical description and clothing | Helps officers identify the person on the scene |
| Vehicle make, model, and license plate | Speeds up pursuit and tracking efforts |
| Photographs or videos | Provides visual proof and aids in the investigation |
When to Contact Law Enforcement
You should contact law enforcement right away if you see a wanted person in a public place or near a school, business, or neighborhood. Quick reporting gives officers the best chance to respond safely. If the sighting is in progress, call 911 for an immediate response.
For non-urgent sightings or past information, use the tip line or online form. These channels route your details to the right unit without tying up emergency lines. Choose the right channel based on the urgency of the situation.
Do Not Approach a Wanted Person
You should never approach a wanted person on your own. Even people listed for minor offenses may react unpredictably when confronted. Trained law enforcement officers have the tools and training to handle these encounters.
If you spot a wanted person, keep your distance, stay calm, and contact the authorities. Do not share your tip with the person or with others who might approach them. Your safety and the safety of others depend on leaving the response to professionals.
Wanted Person Records That Are Unavailable
Some wanted person records are not available to the public for legal or practical reasons. These records may be sealed, restricted, or still in the process of being added to the system. Knowing what types of records are unavailable helps set the right expectations when you search.
Even when records are not public, law enforcement agencies still use them for internal purposes. The public portal only shows records that meet state and local rules for disclosure. Sealed records are fully restricted by court order, while restricted records may show limited details.
Recently Added Individuals
Recently added individuals may not appear on the public portal right away. It takes time to process new warrants and add them to the database. During this lag, the person may already be wanted, but the listing has not yet been posted.
If you cannot find a name you believe is wanted, the listing may still be in process. Check back in a few days, or contact the sheriff’s office for confirmation. Records appear on the portal as soon as the warrant is processed and cleared for public release.
Removed or Archived Listings
Removed or archived listings are no longer shown on the public search page. They are kept in law enforcement databases for internal use but are not accessible to the public. Removal happens when warrants are served, recalled, or otherwise cleared. Archived records stay out of public view to protect privacy.
If you cannot find a record you saw in the past, it may have been removed or archived. You can contact the sheriff’s office to ask about the current status. Staff can confirm whether the warrant is still active or has been cleared.
Sealed or Restricted Information
Sealed or restricted information is hidden from public view by court order. Sealing happens in cases involving juveniles, sensitive witnesses, or ongoing investigations. Restricted records may show basic details but withhold sensitive fields like addresses or aliases.
Even sealed or restricted records are still active in the eyes of the law. Law enforcement can act on these warrants, even when the records are not public. If you need information about a sealed record, contact the issuing court for guidance.
Incorrect or Incomplete Details
Incorrect or incomplete details can appear on records when information has not been verified or when records are still in transition. Errors may involve misspellings of names, outdated photographs, or wrong dates of birth. The portal works to corr
ect these issues as soon as they are reported.
If you spot incorrect or incomplete details, you can contact the sheriff’s office to report the issue. Staff will review the record and make corrections as needed. Public reports help improve the accuracy of the database.
Delayed Status Updates
Delayed status updates happen when a change has not yet been entered into the system. Warrants may be served or recalled in the field, but the database may take time to reflect the change. During this delay, the record may show an old status.
If you see a status that looks wrong, check back in a few days or contact the sheriff’s office for confirmation. Status updates flow through the system on a regular schedule, so the record should soon match the current state of the case.
Wanted Persons and Related Records
Wanted person records are part of a larger set of public records maintained by law enforcement and the courts. These related records include active warrants, arrest records, criminal records, and inmate records. Each record type has its own purpose and provides different information.
Knowing how these records differ helps you find the right document for your needs. The table below shows the main differences between the most common record types.
| Record Type | What It Shows | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Wanted Persons List | Open warrants and active searches | Checking current wanted status |
| Active Warrants | Valid warrants across all cases | Verifying warrant status |
| Arrest Records | Past arrests and charges | Reviewing arrest history |
| Criminal Records | Convictions and case outcomes | Background checks and case research |
| Inmate Records | Current and past incarcerations | Locating people in custody |
Wanted Persons vs. Active Warrants
The wanted persons list shows people with open warrants who have not been arrested. Active warrants include all valid warrants, even if the person is already in custody. The two records serve different functions and show different statuses.
The wanted list is a public outreach resource, while active warrant records cover all warrant types, including those served quietly. You can use the wanted list to check public status and use active warrant records for a complete warrant check.
Wanted Persons vs. Arrest Records
Wanted person records show open cases where the person is still being sought. Arrest records show past arrests, whether or not a conviction followed. The wanted list focuses on people who have not yet been arrested for the listed charges.
Arrest records include people who were already taken into custody. They help you see past encounters with law enforcement but do not always show current wanted status. For current status, the wanted list is the better source.
Wanted Persons vs. Criminal Records
Criminal records show convictions and case outcomes. They do not always show open warrants or current wanted status. The wanted persons list is a separate resource for open cases.
You can use criminal records to see past convictions and use the wanted list to see open cases. Together, these records give you a fuller picture of someone’s history with the law. Each record type has its own role in public information.
Wanted Persons vs. Inmate Records
Inmate records show people currently in jail or prison. The wanted list shows people who are still being sought. A person can appear on one list but not the other, depending on their status.
If someone is in custody, they will show up in inmate records but not on the wanted list. If they are still being sought, they will appear on the wanted list but not in inmate records. Knowing the difference helps you understand where someone is in the legal process.
Contact Information
You can reach the Milwaukee County Sheriff’s Office Investigations Bureau using the contact details below. The office handles wanted person records, tip submissions, and public record requests related to the wanted list. Staff are available during the posted office hours to assist with questions and reports.
If you have information about a wanted individual or need help with a record search, use the contact details provided. For emergencies or in-progress sightings, always dial 911. For non-urgent tips and questions, use the phone number or visit the office in person.
- Address: 821 W. State St., Room 209, Milwaukee, WI 53233
- Phone: (414) 278-4235
- Office Hours: Mon-Fri: Contact office for current hours
- Official Website: https://county.milwaukee.gov/EN/Sheriff/Divisions/Investigations
Frequently Asked Questions
Find clear answers about locating, understanding, and reporting wanted persons in Milwaukee.
How can I search wanted persons in Milwaukee?
Visit the Milwaukee County Sheriff’s online investigations portal. Enter a name, date of birth, or case number into the search box. The system pulls data directly from current sheriff records, showing any active warrants or wanted status. Results appear instantly, displaying the individual’s photograph, identifying details, and the issuing agency. You can repeat the search with additional criteria if needed. The portal works 24/7 and is the most reliable public source for checking wanted persons in the county.
What information is shown for a wanted person?
The listing includes the person’s full name, photograph, age or date of birth, physical description, and any known aliases. It also shows the last known address, height, weight, and distinguishing features. Offense details appear, such as alleged crime, case number, and warrant status. The issuing law‑enforcement agency and the date the warrant was issued are provided. This data helps the public recognize the individual and understand why they are listed.
How do I report a sighting of a wanted individual?
Call the Milwaukee County Sheriff’s tip line at (414) 278‑4235. You may also submit an anonymous tip through the online portal’s tip form. Provide the person’s name, description, location, and any observed activity. If possible, note the time and date of the sighting. Law enforcement will assess the information and may contact you for follow‑up. Do not approach the individual; instead, let officers handle the situation safely.
When are wanted persons records updated?
The sheriff’s office updates the online wanted list daily. New warrants, captures, or status changes are entered as soon as they are processed by the issuing agency. If a warrant is cleared or a person is apprehended, the record is removed or marked accordingly. Users should check the portal regularly for the most current information, especially if they are monitoring a specific case.
Can I search for a wanted person by name only?
Yes. The portal’s search field accepts a name without additional details. Type the first and last name, then click search. If multiple matches appear, you can narrow results by adding a birth date or case number. The system returns any active listings that match the entered name, showing the photograph and key identifying data. This simple method works for quick checks when you have limited information.